Managed fiber connectivity systems

ABSTRACT

A communications connection system includes an adapter module defining at least first and second ports and at least one media reading interface mounted at one of the ports. The first adapter module is configured to receive a fiber optic connector at each port. Some type of connectors may be formed as duplex connector arrangements. Some types of adapters may include ports without media reading interfaces. Some types of media reading interfaces include contact members having three contact sections.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present disclosure claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/303,961, filed Feb. 12, 2010, titled “Fiber Plugs andAdapters for Managed Connectivity;” U.S. Provisional Application No.61/413,828, filed Nov. 15, 2010, titled “Fiber Plugs and Adapters forManaged Connectivity;” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/437,504,filed Jan. 28, 2011, titled “Fiber Plugs and Adapters for ManagedConnectivity,” the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated byreference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

In communications infrastructure installations, a variety ofcommunications devices can be used for switching, cross-connecting, andinterconnecting communications signal transmission paths in acommunications network. Some such communications devices are installedin one or more equipment racks to permit organized, high-densityinstallations to be achieved in limited space available for equipment.

Communications devices can be organized into communications networks,which typically include numerous logical communication links betweenvarious items of equipment. Often a single logical communication link isimplemented using several pieces of physical communication media. Forexample, a logical communication link between a computer and aninter-networking device such as a hub or router can be implemented asfollows. A first cable connects the computer to a jack mounted in awall. A second cable connects the wall-mounted jack to a port of a patchpanel, and a third cable connects the inter-networking device to anotherport of a patch panel. A “patch cord” cross connects the two together.In other words, a single logical communication link is often implementedusing several segments of physical communication media.

Network management systems (NMS) are typically aware of logicalcommunication links that exist in a communications network, buttypically do not have information about the specific physical layermedia (e.g., the communications devices, cables, couplers, etc.) thatare used to implement the logical communication links. Indeed, NMSsystems typically do not have the ability to display or otherwiseprovide information about how logical communication links areimplemented at the physical layer level.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to communications connector assembliesand connector arrangements that provide physical layer managementcapabilities. In accordance with certain aspects, the disclosure relatesto fiber optic connector assemblies and connector arrangements.

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a communications panelsystems and methods including one or more connector arrangements andconnector assemblies implemented as LC-type fiber optic connections.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a communicationspanel systems and methods including one or more connector arrangementsand connector assemblies implemented as MPO-type fiber opticconnections.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the description, illustrate several aspects of the presentdisclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a portion of an example communications anddata management system in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a communicationsmanagement system that includes PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of one high-level example of a couplerassembly and media reading interface that are suitable for use in themanagement system of FIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIGS. 4-12 illustrate a first example implementation of a connectorsystem that can be utilized on a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel) having PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 13-22 illustrate a second example implementation of a connectorsystem that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 23-50 illustrate a third example implementation of a connectorsystem that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 51-79 illustrate a fourth example implementation of a connectorsystem that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 80-102 illustrate a fifth example implementation of a connectorsystem that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

103-123 illustrate a sixth example implementation of a connector systemthat can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLI functionality aswell as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIGS. 124-155 illustrate a seventh example implementation of a connectorsystem that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 156-168 illustrate an eighth example implementation of a connectorsystem that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 169-181 illustrate a ninth example implementation of a connectorsystem that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 182-199 illustrate a tenth example implementation of a connectorsystem that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 200-217 illustrate an eleventh example implementation of aconnector system that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 218-224 illustrate a twelfth example implementation of a connectorsystem that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 225-242 illustrate a thirteenth example implementation of aconnector system that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 243-249 illustrate a fourteenth example implementation of aconnector system that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 250-261 illustrate a fifteenth example implementation of aconnector system that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 262-275 illustrate a sixteenth example implementation of aconnector system that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality in accordance with aspects ofthe present disclosure; and

FIGS. 276-282 illustrate example coupler assemblies having alternativealignment features for aligning ferrules of connector arrangementsreceived at the coupler assemblies.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary aspects of the presentdisclosure that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whereverpossible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout thedrawings to refer to the same or like parts.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a portion of an example communications and datamanagement system 100. The example system 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes apart of a communications network 101 along which communications signals51 pass. In one example implementation, the network 101 can include anInternet Protocol network. In other implementations, however, thecommunications network 101 may include other types of networks.

The communications network 101 includes interconnected networkcomponents (e.g., connector assemblies, inter-networking devices,internet working devices, servers, outlets, and end user equipment(e.g., computers)). In one example implementation, communicationssignals 51 pass from a computer, to a wall outlet, to a port ofcommunication panel, to a first port of an inter-networking device, outanother port of the inter-networking device, to a port of the same oranother communications panel, to a rack mounted server. In otherimplementations, the communications signals 51 may follow other pathswithin the communications network 101.

The portion of the communications network 101 shown in FIG. 1 includesfirst and second connector assemblies 130, 130′ at which communicationssignals S1 pass from one portion of the communications network 101 toanother portion of the communications network 101. Non-limiting examplesof connector assemblies 130, 130′ include, for example, rack-mountedconnector assemblies (e.g., patch panels, distribution units, and mediaconverters for fiber and copper physical communication media),wall-mounted connector assemblies (e.g., boxes, jacks, outlets, andmedia converters for fiber and copper physical communication media), andinter-networking devices (e.g., switches, routers, hubs, repeaters,gateways, and access points).

In the example shown, the first connector assembly 130 defines at leastone port 132 configured to communicatively couple at least a first mediasegment (e.g., cable) 105 to at least a second media segment (e.g.,cable) 115 to enable the communication signals S1 to pass between themedia segments 105, 115. The at least one port 132 of the firstconnector assembly 130 may be directly connected to a port 132′ of thesecond connector assembly 130′. As the term is used herein, the port 132is directly connected to the port 132′ when the communications signalsS1 pass between the two ports 132, 132′ without passing through anintermediate port. For example, plugging a first terminated end of apatch cable into the port 132 and a second terminated end of the patchcable into the port 132′ directly connects the ports 132, 132′.

The port 132 of the first connector assembly 130 also may be indirectlyconnected to the port 132′ of the second connector assembly 130′. As theterm is used herein, the port 132 is indirectly connected to the port132′ when the communications signals S1 pass through an intermediateport when traveling between the ports 132, 132′. For example, in oneimplementation, the communications signals S1 may be routed over onemedia segment from the port 132 at the first connector assembly 130, toa port of a third connector assembly at which the media segment iscoupled, to another media segment that is routed from the port of thethird connector assembly to the port 132′ of the second connectorassembly 130′.

Non-limiting examples of media segments include optical cables,electrical cables, and hybrid cables. The media segments may beterminated with electrical plugs, electrical jacks, fiber opticconnectors, fiber optic adapters, media converters, or other terminationcomponents. In the example shown, each media segment 105, 115 isterminated at a plug or connector 110, 120, respectively, which isconfigured to communicatively connect the media segments 105, 115. Forexample, in one implementation, the port 132 of the connector assembly130 can be configured to align ferrules of two fiber optic connectors110, 120. In another implementation, the port 132 of the connectorassembly 130 can be configured to electrically connect an electricalplug with an electrical socket (e.g., a jack). In yet anotherimplementation, the port 132 can include a media converter configured toconnect an optical fiber to an electrical conductor.

In accordance with some aspects, the connector assembly 130 does notactively manage (e.g., is passive with respect to) the communicationssignals S1 passing through port 132. For example, in someimplementations, the connector assembly 130 does not modify thecommunications signal S1 carried over the media segments 105, 115.Further, in some implementations, the connector assembly 130 does notread, store, or analyze the communications signal S1 carried over themedia segments 105, 115.

In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the communications anddata management system 100 also provides physical layer information(PLI) functionality as well as physical layer management (PLM)functionality. As the term is used herein, “PLI functionality” refers tothe ability of a physical component or system to identify or otherwiseassociate physical layer information with some or all of the physicalcomponents used to implement the physical layer of the system. As theterm is used herein, “PLM functionality” refers to the ability of acomponent or system to manipulate or to enable others to manipulate thephysical components used to implement the physical layer of the system(e.g., to track what is connected to each component, to traceconnections that are made using the components, or to provide visualindications to a user at a selected component).

As the term is used herein, “physical layer information” refers toinformation about the identity, attributes, and/or status of thephysical components used to implement the physical layer of thecommunications system 101. In accordance with some aspects, physicallayer information of the communications system 101 can include mediainformation, device information, and location information.

As the term is used herein, “media information” refers to physical layerinformation pertaining to cables, plugs, connectors, and other suchphysical media. In accordance with some aspects, the media informationis stored on or in the physical media, themselves. In accordance withother aspects, the media information can be stored at one or more datarepositories for the communications system, either alternatively or inaddition to the media, themselves.

Non-limiting examples of media information include a part number, aserial number, a plug or other connector type, a conductor or fibertype, a cable or fiber length, cable polarity, a cable or fiberpass-through capacity, a date of manufacture, a manufacturing lotnumber, information about one or more visual attributes of physicalcommunication media (e.g., information about the color or shape of thephysical communication media or an image of the physical communicationmedia), and an insertion count (i.e., a record of the number of timesthe media segment has been connected to another media segment or networkcomponent). Media information also can include testing or media qualityor performance information. The testing or media quality or performanceinformation, for example, can be the results of testing that isperformed when a particular segment of media is manufactured.

As the term is used herein, “device information” refers to physicallayer information pertaining to the communications panels,inter-networking devices, media converters, computers, servers, walloutlets, and other physical communications devices to which the mediasegments attach. In accordance with some aspects, the device informationis stored on or in the devices, themselves. In accordance with otheraspects, the device information can be stored at one or more datarepositories for the communications system, either alternatively or inaddition to the devices, themselves. In accordance with still otheraspects, the device information can be stored in the media segmentsattached thereto. Non-limiting examples of device information include adevice identifier, a device type, port priority data (that associates apriority level with each port), and port updates (described in moredetail herein).

As the term is used herein, “location information” refers to physicallayer information pertaining to a physical layout of a building orbuildings in which the network 101 is deployed. Location informationalso can include information indicating where each communicationsdevice, media segment, network component, or other component isphysically located within the building. In accordance with some aspects,the location information of each system component is stored on or in therespective component. In accordance with other aspects, the locationinformation can be stored at one or more data repositories for thecommunications system, either alternatively or in addition to the systemcomponents, themselves.

In accordance with some aspects, one or more of the components of thecommunications network 101 are configured to store physical layerinformation pertaining to the component as will be disclosed in moredetail herein. In FIG. 1, the connectors 110, 120, the media segments105, 115, and/or the connector assemblies 130, 130′ may store physicallayer information. For example, in FIG. 1, each connector 110, 120 maystore information pertaining to itself (e.g., type of connector, data ofmanufacture, etc.) and/or to the respective media segment 105, 115(e.g., type of media, test results, etc.).

In another example implementation, the media segments 105, 115 orconnectors 110, 120 may store media information that includes a count ofthe number of times that the media segment (or connector) has beeninserted into port 132. In such an example, the count stored in or onthe media segment is updated each time the segment (or plug orconnector) is inserted into port 132. This insertion count value can beused, for example, for warranty purposes (e.g., to determine if theconnector has been inserted more than the number of times specified inthe warranty) or for security purposes (e.g., to detect unauthorizedinsertions of the physical communication media).

One or more of the components of the communications network 101 can readthe physical layer information from one or more media segments retainedthereat. In certain implementations, one or more network componentsincludes a media reading interface that is configured to read physicallayer information stored on or in the media segments or connectorsattached thereto. For example, in one implementation, the connectorassembly 130 includes a media reading interface 134 that can read mediainformation stored on the media cables 105, 115 retained within the port132. In another implementation, the media reading interface 134 can readmedia information stored on the connectors or plugs 110, 120 terminatingthe cables 105, 115, respectively.

In accordance with some aspects of the disclosure, the physical layerinformation read by a network component may be processed or stored atthe component. For example, in certain implementations, the firstconnector assembly 130 shown in FIG. 1 is configured to read physicallayer information stored on the connectors 110, 120 and/or on the mediasegments 105, 115 using media reading interface 134. Accordingly, inFIG. 1, the first connector assembly 130 may store not only physicallayer information about itself (e.g., the total number of availableports at that assembly 130, the number of ports currently in use, etc.),but also physical layer information about the connectors 110, 120inserted at the ports and/or about the media segments 105, 115 attachedto the connectors 110, 120.

The physical layer information obtained by the media reading interfacemay be communicated (see PLI signals S2) over the network 101 forprocessing and/or storage. In accordance with some aspects, thecommunications network 101 includes a data network (e.g., see network218 of FIG. 2) along which the physical layer information iscommunicated. At least some of the media segments and other componentsof the data network may be separate from those of the communicationsnetwork 101 to which such physical layer information pertains. Forexample, in some implementations, the first connector assembly 130 mayinclude a plurality of “normal” ports (e.g., fiber optic adapter ports)at which connectorized media segments (e.g., optical fibers) are coupledtogether to create a path for communications signals S1. The firstconnector assembly 130 also may include one or more PLI ports 136 atwhich the physical layer information (see PLI signals S2) are passed tocomponents of the data network (e.g., to one or more aggregation points150 and/or to one or more computer systems 160).

In other implementations, however, the physical layer information may becommunicated over the communications network 101 just like any othersignal, while at the same time not affecting the communication signalsS1 that pass through the connector assembly 130 on the normal ports 132.Indeed, in some implementations, the physical layer information may becommunicated as one or more of the communication signals S1 that passthrough the normal ports 132 of the connector assemblies 130, 130′. Forexample, in one implementation, a media segment may be routed betweenthe PLI port 136 and one of the “normal” ports 132. In anotherimplementation, the media segment may be routed between the PLI port 136and a “normal” port of another connector assembly. In suchimplementations, the physical layer information may be passed along thecommunications network 101 to other components of the communicationsnetwork 101 (e.g., to another connector assembly, to one or moreaggregation points 150 and/or to one or more computer systems 160). Byusing the network 101 to communicate physical layer informationpertaining to it, an entirely separate data network need not be providedand maintained in order to communicate such physical layer information.

For example, in the implementation shown in FIG. 1, each connectorassembly 130 includes at least one PLI port 136 that is separate fromthe “normal” ports 132 of the connector assembly 130. Physical layerinformation is communicated between the connector assembly 130 and thecommunications network 101 through the PLI port 136. Components of thecommunications network 101 may be connected to one or more aggregationdevices 150 and/or to one or more computing systems 160. In the exampleshown in FIG. 1, the connector assembly 130 is connected to arepresentative aggregation device 150, a representative computing system160, and to other components of the network 101 (see looped arrows) viathe PLI port 136.

In some implementations, some types of physical layer informationpertaining to media segments can be obtained by the connector assembly130 from a user at the connector assembly 130 via a user interface(e.g., a keypad, a scanner, a touch screen, buttons, etc.). For example,physical layer information pertaining to media that is not configured tostore such information can be entered manually into the connectorassembly 130 by the user. In certain implementations, the connectorassembly 130 can provide the physical layer information obtained fromthe user to other devices or systems that are coupled to thecommunications network 101 and/or a separate data network.

In other implementations, some or all physical layer information can beobtained by the connector assembly 130 from other devices or systemsthat are coupled to the communications network 101 and/or a separatedata network. For example, physical layer information pertaining tomedia that is not configured to store such information can be enteredmanually into another device or system (e.g., at the connector assembly130, at the computer 160, or at the aggregation point 150) that iscoupled to the network 101 and/or a separate data network.

In some implementations, some types of non-physical layer information(e.g., network information) also can be obtained by one networkcomponent (e.g., a connector assembly 130, an aggregation point 150, ora computer 160) from other devices or systems that are coupled to thecommunications network 101 and/or a separate data network. For example,the connector assembly 130 may pull non-physical layer information fromone or more components of the network 101. In other implementations, thenon-physical layer information can be obtained by the connector assembly130 from a user at the connector assembly 130.

In some implementations, the connector assembly 130 is configured tomodify (e.g., add, delete, and/or change) the physical layer informationstored in or on the segment of physical communication media 105, 115(i.e., or the associated connectors 110, 120). For example, in someimplementations, the media information stored in or on the segment ofphysical communication media 105, 115 can be updated to include theresults of testing that is performed when a segment of physical media isinstalled or otherwise checked. In other implementations, such testinginformation is supplied to the aggregation point 150 for storage and/orprocessing. The modification of the physical layer information does notaffect the communications signals S1 passing through the connectorassembly 130.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one example implementation of acommunications management system 200 that includes PLI functionality aswell as PLM functionality. The management system 200 comprises aplurality of connector assemblies 202. The management system 200includes one or more connector assemblies 202 connected to an IP network218. The connector assemblies 202 shown in FIG. 2 illustrate variousexample implementations of the connector assemblies 130, 30′ of FIG. 1.

Each connector assembly 202 includes one or more ports 204, each ofwhich is used to connect two or more segments of physical communicationmedia to one another (e.g., to implement a portion of a logicalcommunication link for communication signals S1 of FIG. 1). At leastsome of the connector assemblies 202 are designed for use with segmentsof physical communication media that have physical layer informationstored in or on them. The physical layer information is stored in or onthe segment of physical communication media in a manner that enables thestored information, when the segment is attached to a port 204, to beread by a programmable processor 206 associated with the connectorassembly 202.

Each programmable processor 206 is configured to execute software orfirmware that causes the programmable processor 206 to carry out variousfunctions described below. Each programmable processor 206 also includessuitable memory (not shown) that is coupled to the programmableprocessor 206 for storing program instructions and data. In general, theprogrammable processor 206 determines if a physical communication mediasegment is attached to a port 204 with which that processor 206 isassociated and, if one is, to read the identifier and attributeinformation stored in or on the attached physical communication mediasegment (if the segment includes such information stored therein orthereon) using the associated media reading interface 208.

In some implementations, each of the ports 204 of the connectorassemblies 202 comprises a respective media reading interface 208 viawhich the respective programmable processor 206 is able to determine ifa physical communication media segment is attached to that port 204 and,if one is, to read the physical layer information stored in or on theattached segment (if such media information is stored therein orthereon). In other implementations, a single media reading interface 208may correspond to two or more ports 204. The programmable processor 206associated with each connector assembly 202 is communicatively coupledto each of the media reading interfaces 208 using a suitable bus orother interconnect (not shown).

In FIG. 2, four example types of connector assembly configurations 210,212, 214, and 215 are shown. In the first connector assemblyconfiguration 210 shown in FIG. 2, each connector assembly 202 includesits own respective programmable processor 206 and its own respectivenetwork interface 216 that is used to communicatively couple thatconnector assembly 202 to an Internet Protocol (IP) network 218. In someimplementations, the ports 204 of the connector assemblies 202 alsoconnect to the IP network 218. In other implementations, however, onlythe network interfaces 216 couple to the IP network 218.

In the second type of connector assembly configuration 212, a group ofconnector assemblies 202 are physically located near each other (e.g.,in a rack, rack system, or equipment closet). Each of the connectorassemblies 202 in the group includes its own respective programmableprocessor 206. However, in the second connector assembly configuration212, some of the connector assemblies 202 (referred to here as“interfaced connector assemblies”) include their own respective networkinterfaces 216 while some of the connector assemblies 202 (referred tohere as “non-interfaced connector assemblies”) do not. Thenon-interfaced connector assemblies 202 are communicatively coupled toone or more of the interfaced connector assemblies 202 in the group vialocal connections. In this way, the non-interfaced connector assemblies202 are communicatively coupled to the IP network 218 via the networkinterface 216 included in one or more of the interfaced connectorassemblies 202 in the group. In the second type of connector assemblyconfiguration 212, the total number of network interfaces 216 used tocouple the connector assemblies 202 to the IP network 218 can bereduced. Moreover, in the particular implementation shown in FIG. 2, thenon-interfaced connector assemblies 202 are connected to the interfacedconnector assembly 202 using a daisy chain topology (though othertopologies can be used in other implementations and embodiments).

In the third type of connector assembly configuration 214, a group ofconnector assemblies 202 are physically located near each other (e.g.,within a rack, rack system, or equipment closet). Some of the connectorassemblies 202 in the group (also referred to here as “master” connectorassemblies 202) include both their own programmable processors 206 andnetwork interfaces 216, while some of the connector assemblies 202 (alsoreferred to here as “slave” connector assemblies 202) do not includetheir own programmable processors 206 or network interfaces 216. Each ofthe slave connector assemblies 202 is communicatively coupled to one ormore of the master connector assemblies 202 in the group via one or morelocal connections. The programmable processor 206 in each of the masterconnector assemblies 202 is able to carry out the PLM functions for boththe master connector assembly 202 of which it is a part and any slaveconnector assemblies 202 to which the master connector assembly 202 isconnected via the local connections. As a result, the cost associatedwith the slave connector assemblies 202 can be reduced. In theparticular implementation shown in FIG. 2, the slave connectorassemblies 202 are connected to a master connector assembly 202 in astar topology (though other topologies can be used in otherimplementations and embodiments).

In the fourth type of connector assembly configuration 215, a group ofconnector assemblies (e.g., distribution modules) 202 are housed withina common chassis or other enclosure. Each of the connector assemblies202 in the configuration 215 includes their own programmable processors206. In the context of this configuration 215, the programmableprocessors 206 in the connector assemblies 202 are “slave” processors206. Each of the slave programmable processors 206 in the group iscommunicatively coupled to a common “master” programmable processor 217(e.g., over a backplane included in the chassis or enclosure). Themaster programmable processor 217 is coupled to a network interface 216that is used to communicatively couple the master programmable processor217 to the IP network 218.

In the fourth configuration 215, each slave programmable processor 206is configured to manage the media reading interfaces 208 to determine ifphysical communication media segments are attached to the port 204 andto read the physical layer information stored in or on the attachedphysical communication media segments (if the attached segments havesuch information stored therein or thereon). The physical layerinformation is communicated from the slave programmable processor 206 ineach of the connector assemblies 202 in the chassis to the masterprocessor 217. The master processor 217 is configured to handle theprocessing associated with communicating the physical layer informationread from by the slave processors 206 to devices that are coupled to theIP network 218.

In accordance with some aspects, the communications management system200 includes functionality that enables the physical layer informationcaptured by the connector assemblies 202 to be used by application-layerfunctionality outside of the traditional physical-layer managementapplication domain. That is, the physical layer information is notretained in a PLM “island” used only for PLM purposes but is insteadmade available to other applications. For example, in the particularimplementation shown in FIG. 2, the management system 200 includes anaggregation point 220 that is communicatively coupled to the connectorassemblies 202 via the IP network 218.

The aggregation point 220 includes functionality that obtains physicallayer information from the connector assemblies 202 (and other devices)and stores the physical layer information in a data store. Theaggregation point 220 can be used to receive physical layer informationfrom various types of connector assemblies 202 that have functionalityfor automatically reading information stored in or on the segment ofphysical communication media. Also, the aggregation point 220 andaggregation functionality 224 can be used to receive physical layerinformation from other types of devices that have functionality forautomatically reading information stored in or on the segment ofphysical communication media. Examples of such devices include end-userdevices—such as computers, peripherals (e.g., printers, copiers, storagedevices, and scanners), and IP telephones—that include functionality forautomatically reading information stored in or on the segment ofphysical communication media.

The aggregation point 220 also can be used to obtain other types ofphysical layer information. For example, in this implementation, theaggregation point 220 also obtains information about physicalcommunication media segments that is not otherwise automaticallycommunicated to an aggregation point 220. This information can beprovided to the aggregation point 220, for example, by manually enteringsuch information into a file (e.g., a spreadsheet) and then uploadingthe file to the aggregation point 220 (e.g., using a web browser) inconnection with the initial installation of each of the various items.Such information can also, for example, be directly entered using a userinterface provided by the aggregation point 220 (e.g., using a webbrowser).

The aggregation point 220 also includes functionality that provides aninterface for external devices or entities to access the physical layerinformation maintained by the aggregation point 220. This access caninclude retrieving information from the aggregation point 220 as well assupplying information to the aggregation point 220. In thisimplementation, the aggregation point 220 is implemented as “middleware”that is able to provide such external devices and entities withtransparent and convenient access to the PLI maintained by the accesspoint 220. Because the aggregation point 220 aggregates PLI from therelevant devices on the IP network 218 and provides external devices andentities with access to such PLI, the external devices and entities donot need to individually interact with all of the devices in the IPnetwork 218 that provide PLI, nor do such devices need to have thecapacity to respond to requests from such external devices and entities.

For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a network management system (NMS) 230includes PLI functionality 232 that is configured to retrieve physicallayer information from the aggregation point 220 and provide it to theother parts of the NMS 230 for use thereby. The NMS 230 uses theretrieved physical layer information to perform one or more networkmanagement functions. In certain implementations, the NMS 230communicates with the aggregation point 220 over the IP network 218. Inother implementations, the NMS 230 may be directly connected to theaggregation point 220.

As shown in FIG. 2, an application 234 executing on a computer 236 alsocan use the API implemented by the aggregation point 220 to access thePLI information maintained by the aggregation point 220 (e.g., toretrieve such information from the aggregation point 220 and/or tosupply such information to the aggregation point 220). The computer 236is coupled to the IP network 218 and accesses the aggregation point 220over the IP network 218.

In the example shown in FIG. 2, one or more inter-networking devices 238used to implement the IP network 218 include physical layer information(PLI) functionality 240. The PLI functionality 240 of theinter-networking device 238 is configured to retrieve physical layerinformation from the aggregation point 220 and use the retrievedphysical layer information to perform one or more inter-networkingfunctions. Examples of inter-networking functions include Layer 1, Layer2, and Layer 3 (of the OSI model) inter-networking functions such as therouting, switching, repeating, bridging, and grooming of communicationtraffic that is received at the inter-networking device.

The aggregation point 220 can be implemented on a standalone networknode (e.g., a standalone computer running appropriate software) or canbe integrated along with other network functionality (e.g., integratedwith an element management system or network management system or othernetwork server or network element). Moreover, the functionality of theaggregation point 220 can be distribute across many nodes and devices inthe network and/or implemented, for example, in a hierarchical manner(e.g., with many levels of aggregation points). The IP network 218 caninclude one or more local area networks and/or wide area networks (e.g.,the Internet). As a result, the aggregation point 220, NMS 230, andcomputer 236 need not be located at the same site as each other or atthe same site as the connector assemblies 202 or the inter-networkingdevices 238.

Also, power can be supplied to the connector assemblies 202 usingconventional “Power over Ethernet” techniques specified in the IEEE802.3af standard, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Insuch an implementation, a power hub 242 or other power supplying device(located near or incorporated into an inter-networking device that iscoupled to each connector assembly 202) injects DC power onto one ormore power cables (e.g., a power wire included in a copper twisted-paircable) used to connect each connector assembly 202 to the IP network218.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of one example connection system 1800including a connector assembly 1810 configured to collect physical layerinformation from at least one segment of physical communications media.The example connector assembly 1810 of FIG. 3 is configured to connectsegments of optical physical communications media in a physical layermanagement system. The connector assembly 1810 includes a fiber opticadapter defining at least one connection opening 1811 having a firstport end 1812 and a second port end 1814. A sleeve (e.g., a splitsleeve) 1803 is arranged within the connection opening 1811 of theadapter 1810 between the first and second port ends 1812, 1814. Eachport end 1812, 1814 is configured to receive a connector arrangement aswill be described in more detail herein.

A first example segment of optical physical communication media includesa first optical fiber 1822 terminated by a first connector arrangement1820. A second example segment of optical physical communication mediaincludes a second optical fiber 1832 terminated by a second connectorarrangement 1830. The first connector arrangement 1820 is plugged intothe first port end 1812 and the second connector arrangement 1830 isplugged into the second port end 1814. Each fiber connector arrangement1820, 1830 includes a ferrule 1824, 1834 through which optical signalsfrom the optical fiber 1822, 1832, respectively, pass.

The ferrules 1824, 1834 of the connector arrangements 1820, 1830 arealigned by the sleeve 1803 when the connector arrangements 1820, 1830are inserted into the connection opening 1811 of the adapter 1810.Aligning the ferrules 1824, 1834 provides optical coupling between theoptical fibers 1822, 1832. In some implementations, each segment ofoptical physical communication media (e.g., each optical fiber 1822,1832) carries communication signals (e.g., communications signals S1 ofFIG. 1). The aligned ferrules 1824, 1834 of the connector arrangements1820, 1830 create an optical path along which the communication signals(e.g., signals S1 of FIG. 1) may be carried.

In some implementations, the first connector arrangement 1820 mayinclude a storage device 1825 that is configured to store physical layerinformation (e.g., an identifier and/or attribute information)pertaining to the segment of physical communications media (e.g., thefirst connector arrangement 1820 and/or the fiber optic cable 1822terminated thereby). In some implementations, the connector arrangement1830 also includes a storage device 1835 that is configured to storeinformation (e.g., an identifier and/or attribute information)pertaining to the second connector arrangement 1830 and/or the secondoptic cable 1832 terminated thereby.

In one implementation, each of the storage devices 1825, 1835 isimplemented using an EEPROM (e.g., a PCB surface-mount EEPROM). In otherimplementations, the storage devices 1825, 1835 are implemented usingother non-volatile memory device. Each storage device 1825, 1835 isarranged and configured so that it does not interfere or interact withthe communications signals communicated over the media segments 1822,1832.

In accordance with some aspects, the adapter 1810 is coupled to at leasta first media reading interface 1816. In certain implementations, theadapter 1810 also is coupled to at least a second media interface 1818.In some implementations, the adapter 1810 is coupled to multiple mediareading interfaces. In certain implementations, the adapter 1810includes a media reading interface for each port end defined by theadapter 1810. In other implementations, the adapter 1810 includes amedia reading interface for each connection opening 1811 defined by theadapter 1810. In still other implementations, the adapter 1810 includesa media reading interface for each connector arrangement that theadapter 1810 is configured to receive. In still other implementations,the adapter 1810 includes a media reading interface for only a portionof the connector arrangement that the adapter 1810 is configured toreceive.

In some implementations, at least the first media reading interface 1816is mounted to a printed circuit board 1815. In the example shown, thefirst media reading interface 1816 of the printed circuit board 1815 isassociated with the first port end 1812 of the adapter 1810. In someimplementations, the printed circuit board 1815 also can include thesecond media reading interface 1818. In one such implementation, thesecond media reading interface 1818 is associated with the second portend 1814 of the adapter 1810.

The printed circuit board 1815 of the connector assembly 1810 can becommunicatively connected to one or more programmable processors (e.g.,processors 216 of FIG. 2) and/or to one or more network interfaces(e.g., network interfaces 216 of FIG. 2). The network interface may beconfigured to send the physical layer information (e.g., see signals S2of FIG. 1) to a physical layer management network (e.g., seecommunications network 101 of FIG. 1 or IP network 218 of FIG. 2). Inone implementation, one or more such processors and interfaces can bearranged as components on the printed circuit board 1815. In anotherimplementation, one or more such processor and interfaces can bearranged on separate circuit boards that are coupled together. Forexample, the printed circuit board 1815 can couple to other circuitboards via a card edge type connection, a connector-to-connector typeconnection, a cable connection, etc.

When the first connector arrangement 1820 is received in the first portend 1812 of the adapter 1810, the first media reading interface 1816 isconfigured to enable reading (e.g., by the processor) of the informationstored in the storage device 1825. The information read from the firstconnector arrangement 1820 can be transferred through the printedcircuit board 1815 to a physical layer management network, e.g., network101 of FIG. 1, network 218 of FIG. 2, etc. When the second connectorarrangement 1830 is received in the second port end 1814 of the adapter1810, the second media reading interface 1818 is configured to enablereading (e.g., by the processor) of the information stored in thestorage device 1835. The information read from the second connectorarrangement 1830 can be transferred through the printed circuit board1815 or another circuit board to the physical layer management network.

In some such implementations, the storage devices 1825, 1835 and themedia reading interfaces 1816, 1818 each comprise three (3) leads—apower lead, a ground lead, and a data lead. The three leads of thestorage devices 1825, 1835 come into electrical contact with three (3)corresponding leads of the media reading interfaces 1816, 1818 when thecorresponding media segment is inserted in the corresponding port. Incertain example implementations, a two-line interface is used with asimple charge pump. In still other implementations, additional leads canbe provided (e.g., for potential future applications). Accordingly, thestorage devices 1825, 1835 and the media reading interfaces 1816, 1818may each include four (4) leads, five (5) leads, six (6) leads, etc.

FIGS. 4-12 illustrate a first example implementation of a connectorsystem 1000 that can be utilized on a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel) having PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality. One example connector assembly on which the connectorsystem 1000 can be implemented is a bladed chassis.

The connector system 1000 includes at least one example communicationscoupler assembly 1200 that can be mounted to a connector assembly, suchas a communications panel. One or more example connector arrangements1100, which terminate segments 1010 of communications media, areconfigured to communicatively couple to other segments of physicalcommunications media at the coupler assembly 1200 (FIG. 8). Accordingly,communications data signals carried by a media segment terminated by afirst connector arrangement 1100 can be propagated to another mediasegment (e.g., terminated by a second connector arrangement 1100)through the communications coupler 1200.

In accordance with some aspects, each connector arrangement 1100 isconfigured to terminate a single segment of physical communicationsmedia. For example, each connector arrangement 1100 can include a singleconnector 1110 that terminates a single optical fiber or a singleelectrical conductor. In one example implementation, each connectorarrangement 1100 includes a single LC-type fiber optic connector 1110that terminates a single optical fiber.

In accordance with other aspects, each connector arrangement 1100includes two or more connectors 1110, each of which terminates a singlesegment of physical communications media. For example, FIG. 4 shows twoconnector arrangements 1100A, 1100B, each of which defines a duplexfiber optic connector arrangement. Each duplex connector arrangement1100A, 1100B shown includes two connectors 1110, each of whichterminates an optical fiber 1010. In other implementations, theconnectors 1110 can be an SC-type, an ST-type, an FC-type, an LX.5-type,etc.

In accordance with still other aspects, each connector arrangement 1100can include one or more connectors, each of which terminates a pluralityof physical media segments (e.g., see connector arrangement 2100, 2100′,and 5100 of FIGS. 31, 59, and 133). In one example implementation, eachconnector arrangement includes a single MPO-type fiber optic connectorthat terminates multiple optical fibers. In still other systems, othertypes of connector arrangements (e.g., electrical connectorarrangements) can be secured to the communications coupler 1200 or to adifferent type of coupler assembly.

In accordance with some aspects, each communications coupler 1200 isconfigured to form a single link between segments of physicalcommunications media 1010. For example, each communications coupler 1200can define a single passage extending between first and second ports atwhich first and second connector arrangements are coupled. In accordancewith other aspects, however, each communications coupler 1200 isconfigured to form two or more links between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 4, thecommunications coupler 1200 defines four passages 1215, each extendingbetween a first port and a second port.

In some implementations, each passage 1215 of the communications coupler1200 is configured to form a single link between first and secondconnector arrangements 1100. In other example implementations, two ormore passages 1215 can form a single link between connector arrangements1100 (e.g., two passages can form a single link between two duplexconnector arrangements). In still other example implementations, eachcommunications coupler 1200 can form a one-to-many link. For example,the communications coupler 1200 shown in FIG. 4 can connect a duplexconnector arrangement to two single connector arrangements.

One example implementation of a connector arrangement 1100 is shown inFIGS. 5-7. The connector arrangement 1100 includes one or more fiberoptic connectors 1110, each of which terminates one or more opticalfibers 1010. In the example shown in FIG. 4, each connector arrangement1100A, 1100B defines a duplex fiber optic connector arrangement. Eachduplex fiber optic connector arrangement 1100A, 1100B includes two fiberoptic connectors 1110 held together using a clip 1150. In anotherexample implementation, a connector arrangement 1100 can define a singlefiber optic connector (e.g., see FIG. 5).

As shown in FIG. 5, each fiber optic connector 1110 includes a connectorbody 1111 protecting a ferrule 1112 that retains an optical fiber 1010.The connector body 1111 is secured to a boot 1113 for providing bendprotection to the optical fiber 1010. In the example shown, theconnector 1110 is an LC-type fiber optic connector. The connector body1111 includes a fastening member (e.g., latching arm) 1114 thatfacilitates retaining the fiber optic connector 1110 at a port of apassage 1215 defined in the communications coupler 1200. The connectorbody 1111 also defines a through hole (or opposing depressions) 1117.

Each connector arrangement 1100 is configured to store physical layerinformation. For example, the physical layer information can be storedon or in the body 1111 of one or more of the fiber optic connectors 1110of the connector arrangement 1100. In the example shown in FIG. 5, eachconnector body 1111 includes a key 1115 that is configured to align witha keyway defined in the coupler assembly 1200. The key 1115 of certaintypes of connectors 1110 may be configured to accommodate a storagedevice 1130 on which the physical layer information is stored. Forexample, in certain implementations, the key 1115 defines a cavity 1116in which the storage device 1130 can be positioned. In someimplementations, a cover can be positioned over the storage device 1130to enclose the storage device 1130 within the connector 1111. In otherimplementations, the storage device 1130 is left exposed.

One example storage device 1130 includes a printed circuit board 1131 onwhich memory circuitry can be arranged. Electrical contacts 1132 alsoare arranged on the printed circuit board 1131 for interaction with amedia reading interface of the communications coupler 1200 (described inmore detail herein). In one example implementation, the storage device1130 includes an EEPROM circuit arranged on the printed circuit board1131. In other implementations, however, the storage device 1130 caninclude any suitable type of non-volatile memory. In the example shownin FIG. 5, the memory circuitry is arranged on the non-visible side ofthe printed circuit board 1131.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, two or more fiber optic connectors 1110 canbe secured together to form the connector arrangement 1100. In theexample shown, two fiber optic connectors 1110 are secured togetherusing a clip 1150. In some implementations, only one of the fiber opticconnectors 1110 carries a storage device 1130. In other implementations,however, a storage device 1130 can be mounted to both fiber opticconnectors 1110. In certain implementations, the clip 1150 is configuredto be non-removable (e.g., permanent or semi-permanent). For example,the clip 1150 may non-removeably attach together two connectors 1110when only one of the connectors 1110 carries a storage device 1130.

One example clip 1150 is shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The clip 1150 includesa base 1151 that extends across the connectors 1110 to be fastenedtogether. In certain implementations, indicia 1159 can be printed on thebase 1151 to identify the fiber optic connectors 1110 (see FIG. 4). Theclip 1150 also includes arms 1152 that are configured to wrap around andlatch (e.g., see latch members 1155) to secure the fiber opticconnectors 1110 together (FIGS. 6 and 7). In the example shown, each armdefines contours 1153 for accommodating the shape of each fiber opticconnector 1110 (FIG. 6). The arms 1152 also include portions 1154 thatengage and secure to the cavities/depressions 1117 on outer sides of thefiber optic connectors (FIG. 6).

In some implementations, the clip 1150 is non-removeably secured to theconnectors 1110. For example, the arms 1152 may be glued, welded,latched, snap-fit, friction fit, or otherwise secured to the connectors1110. In other implementations, other portions of the clip 1150 may beglued, welded, latched, snap-fit, friction fit, or otherwise secured tothe connectors 1110. In one implementation, the clip 1150 may be moldedaround the connectors 1110. In another implementation, the clip 1150 maybe molded with the connectors 1110 as a unitary piece. In still otherimplementations, the clip 1150 may otherwise secure the connectors 1110together.

FIGS. 8-12 show a portion of one example implementation of acommunications coupler assembly 1200 implemented as a fiber opticadapter. The example communications coupler assembly 1200 includes anadapter housing 1210 defining one or more passages 1215 configured toalign and interface two or more fiber optic connectors. In other exampleimplementations, however, one or more passages 1215 can be configured tocommunicatively couple together a fiber optic connector 1110 with amedia converter (not shown) to convert the optical data signals intoelectrical data signals, wireless data signals, or other such datasignals. In other implementations, however, the communications couplerassembly 1200 can include an electrical termination block that isconfigured to receive punch-down wires, electrical plugs (e.g., forelectrical jacks), or other types of electrical connectors.

As shown in FIG. 8, a printed circuit board 1220 is configured to secure(e.g., via fasteners 1222) to the adapter housing 1210. In someimplementations, the example adapter housing 1210 includes two annularwalls 1218 in which the fasteners 1222 can be inserted to hold theprinted circuit board 1220 to the adapter housing 1210. Non-limitingexamples of suitable fasteners 1222 include screws, snaps, and rivets.For ease in understanding, only a portion of the printed circuit board1220 is shown in FIG. 8. It is to be understood that the printed circuitboard 1220 electrically connects to a data processor and/or to a networkinterface (e.g., the processor 217 and network interface 216 of FIG. 2).It is further to be understood that multiple communications couplerassemblies 1200 can be connected to the printed circuit board 1220within a connector assembly (e.g., a communications panel).

The example adapter housing 1210 shown in FIG. 8 is formed from opposingsides 1211 interconnected by first and second ends 1212. The sides 1211and ends 1212 each extend between an open front and an open rear. Theadapter housing 1210 defines one or more passages 1215 extending betweenthe front and rear ports. Each port of each passage is configured toreceive a connector arrangement or portion thereof (e.g., one fiberoptic connector of duplex connector arrangement 1100A, 1100B of FIG. 4).One or more sleeves (e.g., split sleeves) 1216 are positioned within thepassages 1215 to receive and align the ferrules 1112 of fiber opticconnectors 1110 (FIG. 9).

In the example shown in FIG. 8, the body 1210 of the fiber optic adapter1200 defines four passages 1215. In other implementations, the body 1210can define greater or fewer passages 1215. For example, in some exampleimplementations, the body 1210 of the fiber optic adapter 1200 candefine a single passage 1215 that is configured to optically coupletogether two fiber optic connectors 1110 (e.g., two LC-type connectors,two MPO-type connectors, etc.). In other example implementations, thefiber optic adapter 1200 can define two, eight, or twelve passages 1215that are each configured to optically couple together two fiber opticconnectors 1110. The adapter housing 1210 also defines latch engagementchannel 1217 at each port to facilitate retention of the latch arms 1114of the fiber optic connectors 1110. Each latch engagement channel 1217is configured to accommodate the key 1115 of the connector 1110 receivedat the port.

The fiber optic adapter 1210 includes one or more media readinginterfaces 1230, each configured to acquire the physical layerinformation from the storage device 1130 of a fiber optic connector 1110plugged into the fiber optic adapter 1210. For example, in oneimplementation, the adapter 1210 can include a media reading interface1230 associated with each passage 1215. In another implementation, theadapter 1210 can include a media reading interface 1230 associated witheach port of each passage 1215. In still other implementations, theadapter 1210 can include a media reading interface 1230 associated witheach set of passages 1215 that accommodate a connector arrangement 1100.

In some implementations, the adapter 1210 includes a single mediareading interface 1230 for each connector arrangement 1100 receivedthereat. For example, the quadruplex adapter 1210 shown in FIG. 9includes two media reading interfaces 1230 located at the front of theadapter 1210 and two media reading interfaces 1230 located at the rearof the adapter 1210. Each media reading interfaces 1230 is configured tointerface with the storage device 1130 of one connector 1110 of a duplexfiber optic connector arrangement 1100 received thereat. The adapterport receiving the connector 1110 of the duplex connector arrangement1100 that does not have a storage device 1130 does not have a mediareading interface 1230.

In some such implementations, the media reading interfaces 1230 arepositioned in alternating ports on each side of the adapter 1210. Forexample, in FIG. 9, a first media reading interface 1230 is positionedat the front, right-most port of the adapter 1210, a second mediareading interface 1230 is positioned at the rear, right-middle port ofthe adapter 1210, a third media reading interface 1230 is positioned atthe front, left-middle port of the adapter 1210, and a fourth mediareading interface 1230 is positioned at the rear, left-most port of theadapter 1210. In accordance with some implementations, two duplexadapters 1100 having a storage device mounted only at the rightconnector 1110 (see FIG. 4) may be received at front of the adapter 1210and another two duplex adapters 1100 may be received at the rear of theadapter 1210.

In other implementations, the ports on one side of the adapter 1210 mayinclude sufficient media reading interfaces 1230 configured toaccommodate duplex fiber optic arrangements 1100 and the ports on theother side of the adapter 1210 may include sufficient media readinginterfaces 1230 to accommodate monoplex (i.e., simplex) connectorarrangements 1100. In still other implementations, the ports on bothsides of the adapter 1210 may have sufficient media reading interfaces1230 to accommodate monoplex connector arrangements 1100. In otherimplementations, the adapter housing 120 can include any desiredcombination of front and rear media reading interfaces 1230.

In general, each media reading interface 1230 is formed from one or morecontact members 1231 (FIG. 9). In certain implementations, the couplerhousing 1210 defines slots 1214 configured to receive one or morecontact members 1231. In the example shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the slots1214 accommodating each media reading interface 1230 form one continuousopening. In some implementations, the slots 1214 are configured so thatportions of the contact members 1231 extend into the passages 1215 toengage the electrical contacts 1132 of the storage member 1130positioned in the ports (see FIG. 10). Other portions of the contactmembers 1231 are configured to engage contacts and tracings on theprinted circuit board 1220 associated with the adapter 1200 (see FIG.12). In the example shown in FIGS. 4 and 8, the contacts and tracings onthe printed circuit board 1220 that interact with the contact members1231 are positioned on the non-visible side of the board 1220.

In accordance with some aspects, the contact members 1231 of a mediareading interface 1230 are configured to form a complete circuit withthe printed circuit board 1220 only when a segment of physicalcommunications media (e.g., a fiber optic connector 1110) is insertedwithin the respective passage 1215. For example, a portion of eachcontact member 1231 can be configured to contact the printed circuitboard 1220 only after being pushed external of the housing 1210 by themedia segment. Accordingly, the contact members 1231 can function aspresence detection sensors or switches. In other exampleimplementations, portions of the contact members 1231 can be configuredto complete a circuit until pushed away from a shorting rod by a mediasegment. In accordance with other aspects, some implementations of thecontact members 1231 can be configured to form a complete circuit withthe printed circuit board 1220 regardless of whether a media segment isreceived in the passage 1215.

One example type of contact member 1231 is shown in FIG. 10. In someimplementations, the contact member 1231 defines a planar body. In someimplementations, the contact member 1231 is formed monolithically (e.g.,from a continuous sheet of metal or other material). For example, insome implementations, the contact member 1231 may be manufactured bycutting a planar sheet of metal or other material. In otherimplementations, the contact member 1231 may be manufactured by etchinga planar sheet of metal or other material. In other implementations, thecontact member 1231 may be manufactured by laser trimming a planar sheetof metal or other material. In still other implementations, the contactmember 1231 may be manufactured by stamping a planar sheet of metal orother material.

Each contact member 1231 defines at least three moveable contactlocations 1233, 1235, and 1236. The flexibility of the contact surfaces1233, 1235, and 1236 provides tolerance for differences in spacingbetween the contact member 1231 and the respective printed circuit board1220 when the coupler assembly 1200 is manufactured. Certain types ofcontact members 1231 also include at least one stationary contact 1237.

In some implementations, the contact members 1231 of a single mediareading interface 1230 are staggered to facilitate access to the contactpads 1132 on the connector storage device 1130. For example, as shown inFIGS. 8-12, alternating contact members 1231 can be staggered between atleast first and second locations within the slots 1214 (seeconfiguration C1, shown in detail in FIG. 12). Likewise, in someimplementations, the contact pads 1132 on each storage device 1130 canbe arranged in staggered positions (e.g., see pads 1132A-1132D in FIG.5). In other implementations, the contact members 1231 of a mediareading interface 1230 can be laterally aligned (i.e., side-by-side) orarranged in other configurations to facilitate a one-to-one connectionbetween the contact members 1231 and the contact pads 1132. In stillother implementations, the contact pads 1132 on each storage device 1130can vary in size and/or shape to facilitate a one-to-one connectionbetween the contact members 1231 and the contact pads 1132.

In the example shown in FIG. 12, each media reading interface 1230 ofthe fiber optic adapter 1200 includes four contact members 1231 and eachstorage device 1130 of the fiber optic connector 1110 includes fourcontact pads 1132. A first contact member 1231A and a third contactmember 1231C of the media reading interface 1230 are mounted at firstpositions with the slot 1214. A second contact member 1231B and a fourthcontact member 1231D of the media reading interface 1230 are mounted atsecond positions within the slot 1214 (e.g., compare the positions ofthe two contact members 1231 shown in FIG. 10). The contact pads 1132 onthe storage device 1130 shown in FIG. 5 include wider pads 1132A, 1132Dand narrower pads 1132B, 1132C to accommodate the staggered positions ofthe contact members 1231.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, two contact members 1231 are visiblypositioned within a slot 1214 defined in a fiber optic adapter 1210,shown in cross-section. Two additional contact members 1231 also arepositioned in the slot 1214, but cannot be seen since the additionalcontact members 1231 laterally align with the visible contact members1231. In other implementations, however, greater or fewer contactmembers 1231 may be positioned within the housing.

The example contact member 1231 shown includes a base 1232 that isconfigured to be positioned within a slot 1214 defined by an adapter1210. The base 1232 of certain types of contact members 1231 isconfigured to secure (e.g., snap-fit, latch, pressure-fit, etc.) to theadapter 1210. The base 1232 also can include a retention section thatsecures the member 1231 in the adapter body 1210. A stationary contactlocation 1237 may extend from the base 1232, through the slot 1214,toward the printed circuit board 1220 to touch a contact pad or agrounding line on the printed circuit board 1220. A first arm extendsfrom the base 1232 to define the first contact location 1233. A secondarm extends from the base 1232 to define a resilient section 1234, thesecond contact location 1235, and the third contact location 1236. Thefirst and second arms extend generally away from the passage 1215 andtoward an exterior of the adapter housing 1210 at the first and thirdcontact locations 1233, 1236.

At least the first moveable contact location 1233 is aligned andconfigured to extend outwardly of the adapter housing 1210 through theslots 1214 to touch a first contact pad on the corresponding circuitboard 1220 when the printed circuit board 1220 is mounted to the adapterhousing 1210 (e.g., see FIGS. 10 and 12). The ability of the first armto flex relative to the stationary contact 1237 provides tolerance forplacement of the contact member 1231 relative to the circuit board 1220.In certain implementations, the first moveable contact location 1233touches the same contact pad as the stationary contact location 1237. Inone implementation, the stationary contact location 1237 and the firstmoveable contact location 1233 provide grounding of the contact member1231.

The second arm extends from the base 1232 to define the resilientsection 1234, the second moveable contact location 1235, and the thirdmoveable contact location 1236. In one implementation, the secondcontact location 1235 defines a trough located on the second arm betweenthe resilient section 1234 and the third contact location 1236. Theresilient section 1234 is configured to bias the second contact location1235 towards the channel passage 1215 (see FIG. 10). In someimplementations, the second contact location 1235 extends sufficientlyinto the passage 1215 to enable engagement between the second contactlocation 1235 and the connector body 1111 (e.g., key 1115) of theconnector 1110.

The third contact location 1236 is configured to be positioned initiallywithin the passage 1215. For example, the resilient section 1234 biasesthe third contact section 1236 away from an exterior of the housing 1210when a fiber optic connector 1110 is not inserted into the passage 1215.The resilient section 1234 is configured to bias the third contactlocation 1236 through the slot 1214 to an exterior of the housing 1210when a connector arrangement 1100 or other media segment pushes againstthe second contact location 1235. In the example shown, the resilientsection 1234 is implemented as a looped/bent section of the second arm.In other implementations, the second arm can otherwise include springs,reduced width sections, or portions formed from more resilientmaterials. In other implementations, other types of contact members canbe utilized.

In accordance with some aspects, insertion of the connector body 1111into the passage 1215 causes the third contact location 1236 to contactthe printed circuit board 1220. For example, in some implementations,the key 1115 of the connector body 1111 contacts the second contactlocation 1235 on the contact member 1231 when the connector 1110 isinserted into the passage 1215. When the key 1115 engages the secondcontact location 1235, the key 1115 pushes against the second contactlocation 1235 to move the third contact location 1236 against the biasof the resilient section 1234 toward the exterior of the adapter housing1210 sufficient to contact the contact pads and tracings on the printedcircuit board 1220.

As discussed above, a processor (e.g., processor 217 of FIG. 2) or othersuch equipment also can be electrically coupled to the printed circuitboard 1220. Accordingly, the processor can communicate with the memorycircuitry on the storage device 1130 via the contact members 1231 andthe printed circuit board 1220. In accordance with some aspects, theprocessor is configured to obtain physical layer information from thestorage device 1130. In accordance with other aspects, the processor isconfigured to write (e.g., new or revised) physical layer information tothe storage device 1130. In accordance with other aspects, the processoris configured to delete physical layer information to the storage device1130. In one example implementation, at least a first contact member1231 transfers power, at least a second contact member 1231 transfersdata, and at least a third contact member 1231 provide grounding.However, any suitable number of contact members 1231 can be utilizedwithin each media reading interface 1230.

When the connector body 1111 is inserted sufficiently far into the port,the second contact location 1235 is aligned and in contact with acontact pad 1132 on the storage device 1130 of the fiber optic connector1110. Accordingly, the processor (e.g., processor 217 of FIG. 2) coupledto the printed circuit board 1220 is communicatively coupled to thestorage device 1130 of the fiber optic connector 1110 through thecontact member 1231. In some implementations, the second contactlocation 1235 is aligned with the contact pad 1132 when the connector1110 is fully inserted into the passage 1215. In other implementations,the second contact location 1235 is sufficiently aligned with thecontact pad 1132 to enable communication between the printed circuitboard 1220 and the storage device 1130 even before the connector 1110 isfully inserted into the passage 1215.

In accordance with some aspects, the contact members 1231 are configuredto selectively form a complete circuit with one or more of the printedcircuit boards 1220. For example, each printed circuit board 1220 mayinclude two contact pads for each contact member. In certainimplementations, a first portion of each contact member 1231 touches afirst of the contact pads and a second portion of each contact member1231 selectively touches a second of the contact pads. The processor(e.g., processor 217 of FIG. 2) coupled to the circuit board 1220 maydetermine when the circuit is complete. Accordingly, the contact members1231 can function as presence detection sensors for determining whethera media segment has been inserted into the passages 1215.

In certain implementations, the first moveable contact 1233 of eachcontact member is configured to contact one of the contact pads of thecircuit board 1220. In one implementation, the first moveable contactlocation 1233 is configured to permanently touch the contact pad as longas the circuit board 1220 and contact member 1231 are assembled on theadapter 1210. The third contact location 1236 of certain types ofcontact members 1231 is configured to touch a second contact pad of theprinted circuit board 1220 only when a segment of physicalcommunications media (e.g., an MPO connector 1110) is inserted within anadapter passage 1215 and pushes the second contact location 1235, whichpushes the third contact location 1236 through the slot 1214 and againstthe circuit board 1220. In accordance with other aspects, certain typesof contact members 1231 may be configured to form a complete circuitwith the printed circuit board 1220 regardless of whether a mediasegment is received in the passage 1215.

FIGS. 13-22 illustrate a second example implementation of a connectorsystem 1000′ that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality. The connector system 1000′includes at least one example communications coupler assembly 1200′ thatcan be mounted to a connector assembly, such as a communications panel.One or more example connector arrangements 1100′, which terminatesegments 1010 of communications media, are configured to communicativelycouple to other segments of physical communications media at the couplerassembly 1200′ (e.g., see FIG. 13). Accordingly, communications datasignals carried by a media segment terminated by a first connectorarrangement 1100′ can be propagated to another media segment (e.g.,terminated by a second connector arrangement 1100′) through thecommunications coupler assembly 1200′.

FIGS. 13 and 17-22 show a portion of an example implementation of acommunications coupler assembly 1200′ implemented as a fiber opticadapter. The same reference numbers are used herein to designate likeelements on both adapters 1200 and 1200′. The example adapter 1200′includes an adapter housing 1210′ to which a printed circuit board 1220is secured (e.g., via fasteners 1222). In the example shown, the adapter1200′ is a quadruplex fiber optic adapter. In other implementations,however, the adapter 1200′ can define greater or fewer ports.

FIGS. 13-16 show another example implementation of a connectorarrangement 1100′ suitable for insertion into passages 1215′ of anadapter housing 1210′. The same reference numbers are used herein todesignate like elements on both connector arrangements 1100 and 1100′.The connector arrangement 1100′ includes one or more fiber opticconnectors 1110′, each of which terminates one or more optical fibers1010′.

In accordance with some aspects, each connector arrangement 1100′ isconfigured to terminate a single segment of physical communicationsmedia. For example, each connector arrangement 1100′ can include asingle connector 1110′ that terminates a single optical fiber or asingle electrical conductor. In one example implementation, eachconnector arrangement 1100′ includes a single LC-type fiber opticconnector 1110′ that terminates a single optical fiber. In accordancewith other aspects, each connector arrangement 1100′ includes two ormore connectors 1110′, each of which terminates a single segment ofphysical communications media. For example, a duplex connectorarrangement 1100′ may include two connectors 1110′, each of whichterminates an optical fiber 1010′. In other implementations, theconnectors 1110′ can be an SC-type, an ST-type, an FC-type, anLX.5-type, etc.

In accordance with still other aspects, each connector arrangement 1100′can include one or more connectors, each of which terminates a pluralityof physical media segments (e.g., see connector arrangement 2100, 2100′,and 5100 of FIGS. 31, 59, and 133). In one example implementation, eachconnector arrangement includes a single MPO-type fiber optic connectorthat terminates multiple optical fibers. In still other systems, othertypes of connector arrangements (e.g., electrical connectorarrangements) can be secured to the communications coupler assembly1200′ or to a different type of connector assembly.

In the example shown in FIG. 13, the connector arrangement 1100′ definesa duplex fiber optic connector arrangement including two LC-type fiberoptic connectors 1110′ held together using a clip 1150′. As shown inFIG. 14, each fiber optic connector 1110′ includes a connector body1111′ enclosing a ferrule 1112′ that retains an optical fiber 1010′.Each connector body 1111′ is secured to a boot 1113′ for providing bendprotection to the optical fiber 1010′. The connector body 1111′ includesa fastening member (e.g., clip arm) 1114′ that facilitates retaining thefiber optic connector 1110′ within a passage 1215′ in the adapterhousing 1210′. The body 1111′ also defines a through hole (or opposingdepressions) 1117′ to facilitate maintaining the body 1111′ within theclip 1150′ (e.g., see FIG. 15).

Each connector arrangement 1100′ is configured to store physical layerinformation. For example, the physical layer information can be storedon or in the body 1111′ of one or more of the fiber optic connectors1110′. In the example shown, physical layer information is stored ononly one fiber optic connector 1110′ of the connector arrangement 1100′.In other implementations, however, physical layer information can bestored on each fiber optic connector 1110′.

One example storage device 1130′ includes a printed circuit board 1131′on which memory circuitry can be arranged. In one exampleimplementation, the storage device 1130′ includes an EEPROM circuitarranged on the printed circuit board 1131′. In other embodiments,however, the storage device 1130′ can include any suitable type ofmemory. In the example shown in FIGS. 14-16, the memory circuitry isarranged on the non-visible side of the printed circuit board 1131′.

Electrical contacts 1132′ are arranged on the visible side of theprinted circuit board 1131′ in FIG. 13-16. The electrical contacts 1132′of each storage device 1130′ are configured to engage with contacts of amedia reading interface of the adapter 1200′, which will be discussed inmore detail herein. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the contacts 1132′define planar surfaces extending in a front-to-rear direction. In oneimplementation, the contacts 1132′ are configured to promote even wearamongst the contacts 1132′. In some implementations, the contacts 1132′alternate between long and short planar surfaces. For example, contacts1132A′ and 1132C′ are longer than contacts 1132B′ and 1132D′.

In the example in FIG. 14, the connector bodies 1111′ each include a key1115′ configured to fit with latch engagement channels 1217′ of theadapter body 1210. The key 1115′ of one or more connectors 1110′ isconfigured to accommodate a storage device 1130′ on which the physicallayer information can be stored. For example, the key 1115′ of at leastone of the connectors 1110′ defines a cavity 1116′ in which the storagedevice 1130′ can be mounted. In some implementations, a cover can bepositioned over the storage device 1130′ to enclose the storage device1130′ within the respective connector 1111′. In other implementations,the storage device 1130′ is left exposed.

In the example shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, two fiber optic connectors1110′ are secured together using a clip 1150′. The example clip 1150′includes a body 1151′ that at least partially encloses the connectors1110′ to be secured. The clip 1150′ defines openings or channels 1152′through which portions 1119 of the fiber optic connector bodies 1111′can extend (see FIG. 15). A flange 1153′ curves upwardly and forwardlyto extend over the fastening members 1114′ of the connectors 1110′ (seeFIG. 16). In certain implementations, indicia 1154′ can be printed onthe clip 1150′ to identify the fiber optic connectors 1110′. In theexample shown, the indicia 1154′ are printed on or adjacent the flange1153′ at the rear side of the clip 1150′ (see FIG. 13).

In the example shown, the clip 1150′ has a monolithic body 1151′defining two channels 1152′ separated by an interior wall 1156′. Lugs1157′ are positioned on the inner surfaces of the exterior walls of thebody 1151′ and on both sides of the interior wall 1156′. The lugs 1157′are configured to engage cavities/depressions 1117′ defined in the fiberoptic connector bodies 1111′ to secure the connector bodies 1111′ withinthe clip body 1151′.

FIGS. 17-22 show a portion of one example implementation of a fiberoptic adapter 1200′. The example adapter 1200′ includes an adapterhousing 1210′ to which a printed circuit board 1220′ is secured (e.g.,via fasteners 1222′). In some implementations, the example adapterhousing 1210′ includes two annular walls 1218′ in which the fasteners1222′ can be inserted to hold the printed circuit board 1220′ to theadapter housing 1210′. Non-limiting examples of suitable fasteners 1222′include screws, snaps, and rivets. For ease in understanding, only aportion of the printed circuit board 1220′ is shown in FIGS. 13 and 17.It is to be understood that the printed circuit board 1220′ electricallyconnects to a data processor and/or to a network interface (e.g.,processor 217 and network interface 216 of FIG. 2). It is further to beunderstood that multiple adapters 1200′ can be connected to the printedcircuit board 1220′ within a communications panel.

The example adapter housing 1210′ shown in FIG. 17 is formed fromopposing sides 1211′ interconnected by first and second ends 1212′. Thesides 1211′ and ends 1212′ each extend between an open front and an openrear. The coupler housing 1210′ defines one or more passages 1215′extending between the front and rear ends. Each end of each passage1215′ is configured to receive a connector arrangement or portionthereof (e.g., one fiber optic connector 1110′ of duplex connectorarrangement 1100′ of FIG. 16).

In the example shown in FIG. 17, the adapter body 1210′ defines fourpassages 1215′. In other implementations, the adapter body 1210′ candefine greater or fewer passages 1215′. Sleeves (e.g., split sleeves)1216′ are positioned within the passages 1215′ to receive and align theferrules 1112′ of fiber optic connectors 1110′ (see FIG. 22). Theadapter housing 1210′ also defines latch engagement channels 1217′ atthe front and rear of each passage 1215′ to facilitate retention of thelatch arms 1114′ of the fiber optic connectors 1110′.

The fiber optic adapter 1210′ includes one or more media readinginterfaces 1230′, each configured to acquire the physical layerinformation from the storage device 1130′ of a fiber optic connector1110′ plugged into the fiber optic adapter 1210′. For example, in oneimplementation, the adapter 1210′ can include a media reading interface1230′ associated with each passage 1215′. In another implementation, theadapter 1210′ can include a media reading interface 1230′ associatedwith each connection end of each passage 1215′. In still otherimplementations, the adapter 1210′ can include a media reading interface1230′ associated with each set of ports that accommodates a connectorarrangement 1100′.

For example, the quadruplex adapter 1210′ shown in FIG. 18 includes twomedia reading interfaces 1230′ at the front to interface with two duplexfiber optic connector arrangements 1100′ to be received thereat and twomedia reading interfaces 1230′ at the rear to interface with two duplexfiber optic connector arrangements 1100′ to be received thereat. Inanother implementation, the adapter housing 1210′ can include two mediareading interfaces 1230′ at one side to interface with two duplex fiberoptic connector arrangements 1100′ and four media reading interfaces1230′ at the other side to interface with four fiber optic connectors1110′. In other implementations, the adapter housing 1210′ can includeany desired combination of front and rear media reading interfaces1230′.

In general, each media reading interface 1230′ is formed from one ormore contact members 1231′ (FIG. 21). In certain implementations, theadapter housing 1210′ defines slots 1214′ configured to receive one ormore contact members 1231′. In the example shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, theslots 1214′ accommodating each media reading interface 1230′ define fourseparate openings. In some implementations, the slots 1214′ areconfigured so that portions of the contact members 1231′ extend into thepassages 1215′ to engage the electrical contacts 1132′ of the storagemember 1130′ positioned in the passages 1215′ (see FIG. 20). Otherportions of the contact members 1231′ are configured to engage contactsand tracings on the printed circuit board 1220′ associated with theadapter 1200′. In the example shown in FIG. 17, the contacts andtracings on the printed circuit board 1220′ that interact with thecontact members 1231′ are positioned on the non-visible side of theboard 1220′.

One example type of contact member 1231′ is shown in FIG. 21. In oneimplementation, the contact member 1231′ defines a planar body. In oneimplementation, the contact member 1231′ is formed monolithically (e.g.,from a continuous sheet of metal or other material). For example, insome implementations, the contact member 1231′ may be manufactured bycutting a planar sheet of metal or other material. In otherimplementations, the contact member 1231′ may be manufactured by etchinga planar sheet of metal or other material. In other implementations, thecontact member 1231′ may be manufactured by laser trimming a planarsheet of metal or other material. In still other implementations, thecontact member 1231′ may be manufactured by stamping a planar sheet ofmetal or other material.

Each contact member 1231′ defines at least three moveable contactlocations 1233′, 1235′, and 1236′. The flexibility of the contactsurfaces 1233′, 1235′, and 1236′ provides tolerance for differences inspacing between the contact member 1231′ and the respective printedcircuit board 1220′ when the coupler assembly 1200′ is manufactured.Certain types of contact members 1231′ also include at least onestationary contact 1237′.

In some implementations, the contact members 1231′ of a single mediareading interface 1230′ are positioned in a staggered configuration tofacilitate access to the contact pads 1132′ on the connector storagedevice 1130′ of a connector arrangement 1100′. For example, as shown inFIG. 22, alternating contact members 1231 can be staggered between atleast front and rear locations within the slots 1214′.

In some implementations, the contact members 1231′ of a single mediareading interface 1230′ are staggered to facilitate access to thecontact pads 1132′ on the connector storage device 1130′. For example,as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, alternating contact members 1231′ can bestaggered between at least first and second locations within the slots1214′ (see configuration C2, shown in detail in FIG. 19). Likewise, insome implementations, the contact pads 1132′ on each storage device1130′ can be arranged in staggered positions. In other implementations,the contact pads 1132′ on each storage device 1130′ can vary in sizeand/or shape to facilitate a one-to-one connection between the contactmembers 1231′ and the contact pads 1132′ (e.g., see pads 1132 in FIG.14).

In the example shown in FIG. 18, each media reading interface 1230′ ofthe fiber optic adapter 1200′ includes four contact members 1231′. Afirst contact member 1231A′ and a third contact member 1231C′ of themedia reading interface 1230′ are mounted at first positions with theslot 1214′ (see FIG. 22). A second contact member 1231B′ and a fourthcontact member 1231D′ of the media reading interface 1230′ are mountedat second positions within the slot 1214′. In the example shown in FIG.14, first and third contact pads 1132A′, 1132C′ of the storage device1130′ extend a first distance over the board 1131′ and second and fourthcontact pads 1132B′, 1132D′ extend a second distance over the board1131′.

In the example shown in FIG. 20, at least portions of two contactmembers 1231′ are visibly positioned within a slot 1214′ defined in afiber optic adapter 1210′, shown in cross-section. Two additionalcontact members 1231′ also are positioned in the slot 1214′ (see FIG.19), but cannot be seen since the additional contact members 1231′laterally align with the visible contact members 1231′. In otherimplementations, however, greater or fewer contact members 1231′ may bepositioned within the housing 1210′.

The example contact member 1231′ shown includes a base 1232′ that isconfigured to be positioned within a slot 1214′ defined by an adapter1210′. The base 1232′ of certain types of contact members 1231′ isconfigured to secure (e.g., snap-fit, latch, pressure-fit, etc.) to theadapter 1210′. The base 1232′ also can include a retention section 1238′that secures the member 1231′ in the adapter body 1210′ (e.g., see FIG.20). An exploded view of the retention section 1238′ is shown in FIG.21A.

A stationary contact location 1237′ may extend from the base 1232′,through the slot 1214′, toward the printed circuit board 1220 to touch acontact pad or a grounding line on the printed circuit board 1220. Afirst arm extends from the base 1232′ to define the first contactlocation 1233′. A second arm extends from the base 1232′ to define aresilient section 1234′, the second contact location 1235′, and thethird contact location 1236′. The first and second arms extend generallyaway from the passage 1215′ and toward an exterior of the adapterhousing 1210′ at the first and third contact locations 1233′, 1236′ (seeFIG. 20).

At least the first moveable contact location 1233′ is aligned andconfigured to extend outwardly of the adapter housing 1210′ through theslots 1214′ to touch a first contact pad on the corresponding circuitboard 1220′ when the printed circuit board 1220′ is mounted to theadapter housing 1210′. The ability of the first arm to flex relative tothe stationary contact 1237′ provides tolerance for placement of thecontact member 1231′ relative to the circuit board 1220′. In certainimplementations, the first moveable contact location 1233′ touches thesame contact pad as the stationary contact location 1237′. In oneimplementation, the stationary contact location 1237′ and the firstmoveable contact location 1233′ provide grounding of the contact member1231′.

The second arm extends from the base 1232′ to define the resilientsection 1234′, the second moveable contact location 1235′, and the thirdmoveable contact location 1236′. In one implementation, the secondcontact location 1235′ defines a trough located on the second armbetween the resilient section 1234′ and the third contact location1236′. The resilient section 1234′ is configured to bias the secondcontact location 1235′ towards the channel passage 1215′ (see FIG. 20).In some implementations, the second contact location 1235′ extendssufficiently into the passage 1215′ to enable engagement between thesecond contact location 1235′ and the connector body 1111′ (e.g., key1115′) of the connector 1110′.

The third contact location 1236′ is configured to be positionedinitially within the slot 1214′ . For example, the resilient section1234′ biases the third contact section 1236′ away from an exterior ofthe housing 1210′ when a fiber optic connector 1110′ is not insertedinto the passage 1215′. The resilient section 1234′ is configured tobias the third contact location 1236′ through the slot 1214′ to anexterior of the housing 1210′ when a connector arrangement 1100′ orother media segment pushes against the second contact location 1235′. Inthe example shown, the resilient section 1234′ is implemented as alooped/bent section of the second arm. In other implementations, thesecond arm can otherwise include springs, reduced width sections, orportions formed from more resilient materials. In other implementations,other types of contact members can be utilized.

In accordance with some aspects, insertion of the connector body 1111′into the passage 1215′ causes the third contact location 1236′ tocontact the printed circuit board 1220′. For example, in someimplementations, the key 1115′ of the connector body 1111′ contacts thesecond contact location 1235′ on the contact member 1231′ when theconnector 1110′ is inserted into the passage 1215′. When the key 1115′engages the second contact location 1235′, the key 1115′ pushes againstthe second contact location 1235′ to move the third contact location1236′ against the bias of the resilient section 1234′ toward theexterior of the adapter housing 1210′ sufficient to contact the contactpads and tracings on the printed circuit board 1220′.

As discussed above, a processor (e.g., processor 217 of FIG. 2) or othersuch equipment also can be electrically coupled to the printed circuitboard 1220′. Accordingly, the processor can communicate with the memorycircuitry on the storage device 1130′ via the contact members 1231′ andthe printed circuit board 1220′. In accordance with some aspects, theprocessor is configured to obtain physical layer information from thestorage device 1130′. In accordance with other aspects, the processor isconfigured to write (e.g., new or revised) physical layer information tothe storage device 1130′. In accordance with other aspects, theprocessor is configured to delete physical layer information to thestorage device 1130′. In one example implementation, at least a firstcontact member 1231′ transfers power, at least a second contact member1231′ transfers data, and at least a third contact member 1231′ providegrounding. However, any suitable number of contact members 1231′ can beutilized within each media reading interface 1230′.

In accordance with some aspects, the contact members 1231′ of a mediareading interface 1230′ are configured to form a complete circuit withthe printed circuit board 1220′ only when a portion (e.g., the key1115′) of a fiber optic connector 1110′ is inserted within therespective passage 1215′. For example, the second contact locations1235′ of each contact member 1231′ can be configured to raise the thirdcontact location 1236′ external of the housing 1210′ through the slot1214′ when the second contact location 1235′ is lifted by the key 1115′.

Accordingly, the contact members 1231′ can function as presencedetection sensors or switches. For example, a completion of a circuitbetween the printed circuit board 1220′ and a media reading interface1230′ can indicate that fiber optic connector 1110′ is received withinthe passage 1215′. In other example implementations, the contact members1231′ can be configured to complete the circuit until one or moreportions are pushed away from a shorting rod by a media segment. Inaccordance with other aspects, some implementations of the contactmembers 1231′ can be configured to form a complete circuit with theprinted circuit board 1220′ regardless of whether a media segment isreceived in the passage 1215′.

If the connector 1110′ inserted into the passage 1215′ carries a storagedevice 1130, then insertion of the connector 1110′ sufficiently far intothe passage 1215′ aligns one or more contact pads 1132′ on a storagedevice 1130′ with contact members 1231′ of the media reading interface1230′. Accordingly, the processor (e.g., a main processor) coupled tothe printed circuit board 1220′ is communicatively coupled to thestorage device 1130′ of the fiber optic connector 1110′ through thecontact member 1231′. In some implementations, the second contactlocation 1235′ of each contact member 1231′ is aligned with one of thecontact pads 1132′ of a storage device 1130′ when the connector 1110′ isfully inserted into the passage 1215′. In other implementations, thesecond contact locations 1235′ are sufficiently aligned with the contactpads 1132′ to enable communication between the printed circuit board1220′ and the storage device 1130′ even before the connector 1110′ isfully inserted into the passage 1215′.

As shown in FIG. 22, dust caps 1250 can be mounted within the adapterpassages 1215, 1215′ when connectors 1110, 1110′ are not receivedthereat. The dust caps 1250 can inhibit dust, dirt, or othercontaminants from entering the passages 1215, 1215′ when the passages1215, 1215′ are not being utilized.

One example dust cap 1250 is shown in FIG. 22. In the example shown, thedust cap 1250 includes a cover 1251 configured to fit over a mouth of apassage 1215, 1215′. A handle including a grip 1255 and a stem 1256extend outwardly from a first side of the cover 1251. The handlefacilitates insertion and withdrawal of the dust cap 1250 from thepassage 1215, 1215′. Insertion members 1252 extend outwardly from asecond side of the cover 1251. Each insertion member 1252 is configuredto fit within a passage 1215, 1215′ of the adapter housing 1210, 1210′to hold the dust cap 1250 at the port.

In the example shown, each dust cap 1250 is a duplex dust cap thatincludes two insertion members 1252. In other implementations, however,each dust cap 1250 can include greater or fewer insertion members 1252.In the example shown, each insertion member 1252 is shaped similarly toa fiber optic connector that is configured to be retained at a port ofeach passage 1215, 1215′. For example, each insertion member 1252 caninclude a retaining member 1253 that is configured to interface with thelatch engagement structures 1217, 1217′ of the adapter housing 1210,1210′.

In some implementations, the dust caps 1250 are shaped and configured toavoid triggering the presence detection sensor/switch formed by themedia reading interfaces (e.g., see FIGS. 50, 68, and 155). Accordingly,insertion of a dust cap 1250 into a passage 1215, 1215′ does not triggerthe presence switch associated with the passage 1215, 1215′. Forexample, the dust caps 1250 can be shaped and configured to inhibitengaging the second contact location 1235 of the contact members 1231associated with the respective passage 1215. In the example shown, thefront ends of the insertion members 1252 do not include raised portions(e.g., raised portions 1115, 1115′ of fiber optic connectors 1110,1110′).

In other implementations, the dust caps 1250 may include storage devicescontaining physical layer information. In such implementations, the dustcaps 1250 may be shaped and configured to trigger the presence switchthrough interaction with the contact members 1231, 1231′ and to be readthrough the media reading interfaces 1230, 1230′ of the passage 1215,1215′.

FIGS. 23-50 illustrate a third example implementation of a connectorsystem 2000 that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality. The example connector system2000 includes at least one communications coupler assembly 2200positioned between two printed circuit boards 2220. One or more exampleconnector arrangements 2100 (FIG. 31), which terminate segments 2010(FIG. 31) of communications media, are configured to communicativelycouple to other segments of physical communications media at the one ormore communications coupler assemblies 2200. Accordingly, communicationsdata signals carried by the media segments 2010 terminated by theconnector arrangements 2100 can be transmitted to other media segments.

In the example shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, eight coupler housings 2210 aresandwiched between a first printed circuit board 2220A and a secondprinted circuit board 2220B (e.g., via fasteners 2222). In someimplementations, the first printed circuit board 2220A can beelectrically coupled to the second printed circuit board 2220B via afixed connector (e.g., a card edge connector). In other implementations,the first printed circuit board 2220A can be electrically coupled to thesecond printed circuit board 2220B via a flexible or ribbon cablearrangement. In still other implementations, the printed circuit boards2220A, 2220B are interconnected using other suitable circuit boardconnection techniques.

In the example shown, each coupler housing 2210 defines a single passage2215 extending between opposite open ends. In other exampleimplementations, however, each coupler housing 2210 can include agreater number (e.g., two, three, four, six, eight, twelve, etc.) ofpassages 2215. Each open end of each passage 2215 is configured toreceive a segment of communications media (e.g., a connectorized end ofan optical fiber). In other implementations, the connector system 2000can include greater or fewer coupler housings 2210.

For ease in understanding, only portions of the example printed circuitboards 2220 of the connector system 2000 are shown in FIGS. 23 and 24.It is to be understood that the printed circuit boards 2220 electricallyconnect to a data processor and/or to a network interface (e.g.,processor 217 and network interface 216 of FIG. 2) as part of a couplerassembly. As noted above, non-limiting examples of such connectorassemblies include bladed chassis and drawer chassis. Furthermore,additional coupler housings 2210 can be connected to different portionsof the printed circuit boards 2220 or at other locations within anexample connector assembly.

One example coupler housing 2210 is shown in FIGS. 25-30. The examplecoupler housing 2210 is formed from opposing sides 2211 interconnectedby first and second ends 2212. The sides 2211 and ends 2212 each extendbetween an open front and an open rear to define passages 2215. In theexample shown in FIG. 25, the sides 2211 are curved to bow outwardly.The coupler housing 2210 also includes mounting stations 2217 at whichfasteners 2222 can be received to secure the coupler housing 2210 to oneor more printed circuit boards 2220. Non-limiting examples of suitablefasteners 2222 include screws, snaps, and rivets. For example, themounting stations 2217 can aid in securing the coupler housing 2210 toan upper circuit board 2220A and a lower circuit board 2220B. In otherimplementations, the mounting stations 2217 can include latches, panelguides, or other panel mounting arrangements.

In the example shown, each coupler housing 2210 is implemented as afiber optic adapter configured to receive Multi-Fiber Push-On (MPO)connectors. Each passage 2215 of the MPO adapters 2210 is configured toalign and connect two MPO connector arrangements 2100 (FIG. 31). Inother implementations, each passage 2215 can be configured to connectother types of physical media segments. For example, one or morepassages 2215 of the MPO adapters 2200 can be configured tocommunicatively couple together an MPO connector arrangement 2100 with amedia converter (not shown) to convert the optical data signals intoelectrical data signals, wireless data signals, or other type of datasignals.

In some implementations, flexible latching tabs 2219 are located at theentrances of the passages 2215 to aid in retaining connectorarrangements within the passages 2215. In the example shown, eachlatching tab 2219 defines a ramped surface and latching surface. Thecoupler housings 2210 also define channels 2218 extending partly alongthe length of the passages 2215 (e.g., see FIGS. 26 and 30) toaccommodate portions of the fiber connector arrangements 2100. In someimplementations, the adapter 2210 may define a channel 2218 extendinginwardly from each open end of the passage 2215. In one exampleimplementation, a first channel 2218 extends along a top of the housing2210 from a first end of each passage 2215 and a second channel 2218extends along a bottom of the housing 2210 from a second end of eachpassage 2215.

Each MPO housing 2210 includes at least one media reading interface 2230(e.g., see FIG. 24) configured to acquire the physical layer informationfrom a storage device 2130 of a fiber connector arrangement 2100 (seeFIGS. 31-34). In the example shown in FIG. 24, each MPO adapter 2210includes at least one media reading interface 2230 that is configured tocommunicate with the storage device 2130 on an MPO connector 2110plugged into the MPO adapter 2210. For example, in one implementation,the adapter 2210 can include a media reading interface 2230 associatedwith each passage 2215. In another implementation, the adapter 2210 caninclude a media reading interface 2230 associated with each connectionend of a passage 2215.

FIGS. 31-34 show one example implementation of a connector arrangementimplemented as an MPO connector 2100 that is configured to terminatemultiple optical fibers. As shown in FIG. 31, each MPO connector 2100includes a connector body 2110 enclosing a ferrule 2112 that retainsmultiple optical fibers (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, or 16 fibers). Theconnector body 2110 is secured to a boot 2113 to provide bend protectionto the optical fibers.

The connector arrangement 2100 is configured to store physical layerinformation (e.g., media information). For example, the physical layerinformation can be stored in a memory device 2130 mounted on or in theconnector body 2110. In the example shown in FIG. 31, the connector body2110 includes a storage section 2115 configured to accommodate a storagedevice 2130 on which the physical information is stored. The storagesection 2115 includes a raised (i.e., or stepped up) portion of theconnector body 2110 located adjacent the ferrule 2112. The raisedportion 2115 defines a cavity 2116 in which the storage device 2130 canbe positioned. In some implementations, the cavity 2116 is two-tiered(e.g., see FIGS. 32 and 34), thereby providing a shoulder on which thestorage device 2130 can rest and space to accommodate circuitry locatedon a bottom of the storage device 2130. In other implementations, thestorage device 2130 can be otherwise mounted to the connector 2110.

One example storage device 2130 includes a printed circuit board 2131 towhich memory circuitry can be arranged. In one example embodiment, thestorage device 2130 includes an EEPROM circuit arranged on the printedcircuit board 2131. In other embodiments, however, the storage device2130 can include any suitable type of memory. In the example shown inFIG. 31, the memory circuitry is arranged on the non-visible side of theprinted circuit board 2131. Electrical contacts 2132 (FIG. 31) also arearranged on the printed circuit board 2131 for interaction with a mediareading interface 2230 of the connector assembly 2200.

FIGS. 35-41 show the media reading interface 2230 of the MPO adapter2200 in accordance with some implementations. In the example shown, theMPO adapter housing 2210 includes a first media reading interface 2230Aand a second media reading interface 2230B. In some implementations, thefirst media reading interface 2230A is associated with a firstconnection end of the passage 2215 and the second media readinginterface 2230B is associated with a second connection end of thepassage 2215.

In the example shown, the second media reading interface 2230B isflipped (i.e., located on an opposite side of the housing 2210) relativeto the first media reading interface 2230A (e.g., see FIGS. 40-41). Insome such implementations, the channel 2218 extending inwardly from thefirst connection end of the passage 2215 also is flipped with respect tothe channel 2218 extending inwardly from the second end of the passage2215 (e.g., see FIG. 40). In some implementations, one or both ends 2212of the adapter housing 2210 defines slots 2214 (e.g., see FIGS. 28 and29) that lead to the channels 2218 (see FIGS. 40 and 41). The channels2218 are each configured to receive a media reading interface 2230through the respective slots 2214.

In the example shown in FIGS. 28, 29, 40, and 41, flipping theorientation of the connectors 2110 between the front and rear portsenables each of the major surfaces 2212 of the adapter 2210 to beconfigured to receive only one media reading interface 2130 for eachpassage 2215. For example, the media reading interfaces 2130 for thefront ports of the passages 2215 are accommodated by a first of themajor surfaces 2212 and the media reading interfaces 2130 for the rearports of the passages 2215 are accommodated by a second of the majorsurfaces 2212. Such a configuration enables each slot 2214 to extendmore than half-way between the front and rear of the adapter 2210.

In other implementations, each major surface 2212 of the adapter 2210may accommodate the media reading interfaces 2130 for some of the frontports and some of the rear ports. For example, in one implementation,each major surface 2212 accommodates the media reading interfaces foralternating ones of the front and rear ports. In particular, a firstslot in the first major surface 2212 may accommodate a media readinginterface 2130 for a front port of a first passage 2215 and a first slot2214 in the second major surface 2212 may accommodate a media readinginterface 2130 for a rear port of the first passage 2215. A second slot2214 in the first major surface 2212 may accommodate a media readinginterface 2130 for a rear port of a second passage 2215 and a secondslot 2214 in the second major surface 2212 may accommodate a mediareading interface 2130 for a front port of the second passage 2215. Suchconfigurations also enable each slot 2214 to extend more than half-waybetween the front and rear of the adapter 2210.

Lengthening the slots 2214 enables longer contact members 2231 to bereceived within each slot 2214. For example, each contact member 2231may extend at least half-way across the adapter 2210 between the frontand rear of the adapter 2210. In certain implementations, each contactmember 2231 may extend across a majority of the distance between thefront and rear of the adapter 2210. Lengthening the contact members 2231increases the beam length of each contact member 2231. The beam lengthaffects the ability of the contact member 2231 to deflect toward andaway from the circuit boards 2220.

In general, each media reading interface 2230 is formed from one or morecontact members 2231. Portions of the contact members 2231 extend intothe passage 2215 of the MPO adapter 2210 through the respective channel2218 (e.g., see FIGS. 40-41) to engage the electrical contacts 2132 ofthe storage member 2130 of any MPO connector positioned in the passage2215. Other portions of the contact members 2231 are configured toprotrude outwardly from the channel 2218 through the slots 2214 toengage contacts and tracings on a printed circuit board 2220 associatedwith the connector assembly 2200 (e.g., see FIG. 42).

In some implementations, the contact members 2231 of a single mediareading interface 2230 are positioned in a staggered configuration tofacilitate access to the contact pads 2132 on the connector storagedevice 2130 of a connector arrangement 2100. For example, as shown inFIGS. 35 and 35A, alternating contact members 2231 can be staggeredbetween at least front and rear locations within the channels 2218.Likewise, in some implementations, the contact pads 2132 on each storagedevice 2130 can be arranged in staggered positions (e.g., see pads 2132in FIG. 31). In other implementations, the contact pads 2132 on eachstorage device 1130 can vary in size and/or shape to facilitate aone-to-one connection between the contact members 2231 and the contactpads 2132.

One example type of contact member 2231 is shown in FIGS. 36-38. In oneimplementation, the contact member 2231 defines a planar body. In oneimplementation, the contact member 2231 is formed monolithically (e.g.,from a continuous sheet of metal or other material). For example, insome implementations, the contact member 2231 may be manufactured bycutting a planar sheet of metal or other material. In otherimplementations, the contact member 2231 may be manufactured by etchinga planar sheet of metal or other material. In other implementations, thecontact member 2231 may be manufactured by laser trimming a planar sheetof metal or other material. In still other implementations, the contactmember 2231 may be manufactured by stamping a planar sheet of metal orother material.

Each contact member 2231 defines at least three moveable contactlocations 2235, 2238, and 2239. The flexibility of the contact surfaces2235, 2238, and 2239 provides tolerance for differences in spacingbetween the contact member 2231 and the respective printed circuit board2220 when the coupler assembly 2200 is manufactured. Certain types ofcontact members 2231 also include at least one stationary contact 2233.

In the example shown in FIGS. 40 and 41, at least portions of twocontact members 2231 are visibly positioned within a slot 2214 definedin a fiber optic adapter 2210, shown in cross-section. Two additionalcontact members 2231 also are positioned in the slot 2214, but cannot beseen since the additional contact members 2231 laterally align with thevisible contact members 2231. In other implementations, however, greateror fewer contact members 2231 may be positioned within the housing.

The example contact member 2231 shown includes a base 2232 that isconfigured to be positioned within a slot 2214 defined by an adapter2210. The base 2232 of certain types of contact members 2231 isconfigured to secure (e.g., snap-fit, latch, pressure-fit, etc.) to theadapter 2210. The base 1232 also can include a retention section thatsecures the member 1231 in the adapter body 1210. First and second legs2241, 2242 extend from the base 2232.

A first arm 2234 extends from the first leg 2241 and defines a firstmoveable contact location 2235 between the two legs 2241, 2242 (e.g., ata distal end of the arm 2234). At least the first moveable contactlocation 2235 is aligned and configured to extend outwardly of theadapter housing 2210 through the slots 2214 to touch a first contact padon the corresponding circuit board 2220 (e.g., see FIG. 50). The abilityof the first arm to flex relative to the legs 2241, 2242 providestolerance for placement of the contact member 2231 relative to thecircuit board 2220. In certain implementations, each of the legs 2241,2242 defines a stationary contact location 2233 that also touches thefirst contact pad on the circuit board 2220. In one implementation, thestationary contacts 2233 and first moveable contact 2235 providegrounding of the contact member 2231.

A second arm 2236 extends from the second leg 2242 to define a resilientsection 2237, a second moveable contact location 2238, and a thirdmoveable contact location 2239. In one implementation, the secondcontact location 2238 defines a trough located on the second arm 2236between the resilient section 2237 and the third contact location 2239.The resilient section 2237 is configured to bias the second contactlocation 2238 towards the channel 2218 (e.g., see FIGS. 40 and 41). Inthe example shown, the resilient section 2237 is implemented as alooped/bent section of the second arm 2236. In other implementations,the second arm 2236 can otherwise include springs, reduced widthsections, or portions formed from more resilient materials.

The third contact location 2239 is configured to be positioned initiallywithin the slot 2214. The resilient section 2237 is configured to biasthe third contact location 2239 through the slot 2214 to an exterior ofthe housing 2210 when a connector arrangement 2100 or other mediasegment pushes against the second contact location 2238. For example,inserting an MPO connector 2110 into a connection end of a passage 2215of an MPO adapter 2210 would cause the storage section 2115 of theconnector 2110 to slide through the channel 2218 and to engage thesecond contact location 2238 of each contact member 2231 associated withthat connection end of the passage 2215. The storage section 2115 wouldpush outwardly on the second contact location 2238, which would push thethird contact location 2239 through the slots 2214 and toward theprinted circuit board 2220 mounted to the adapter 2210 adjacent theslots 2214 (see FIG. 50).

As discussed above, a processor (e.g., processor 217 of FIG. 2) or othersuch equipment also can be electrically coupled to the printed circuitboard 2220. Accordingly, the processor can communicate with the memorycircuitry on the storage device 2130 via the contact members 2231 andthe printed circuit board 2220. In accordance with some aspects, theprocessor is configured to obtain physical layer information from thestorage device 2130. In accordance with other aspects, the processor isconfigured to write (e.g., new or revised) physical layer information tothe storage device 2130. In accordance with other aspects, the processoris configured to delete physical layer information to the storage device2130. In one example implementation, at least a first contact member2231 transfers power, at least a second contact member 2231 transfersdata, and at least a third contact member 2231 provide grounding.However, any suitable number of contact members 2231 can be utilizedwithin each media reading interface 2230.

In accordance with some aspects, the contact members 2231 are configuredto selectively form a complete circuit with one or more of the printedcircuit boards 2220. For example, each printed circuit board 2220 mayinclude two contact pads for each contact member. In certainimplementations, a first portion of each contact member 2231 touches afirst of the contact pads and a second portion of each contact member2231 selectively touches a second of the contact pads. The processorcoupled to the circuit board 2220 may determine when the circuit iscomplete. Accordingly, the contact members 2231 can function as presencedetection sensors for determining whether a media segment has beeninserted into the passages 2215.

In certain implementations, the first moveable contact 2235 of eachcontact member is configured to contact one of the contact pads of thecircuit board 2220. In one implementation, the first moveable contactlocation 2235 is configured to permanently touch the contact pad as longas the circuit board 2220 and contact member 2231 are assembled on theadapter 2210. The third contact location 2239 of certain types ofcontact members 2231 is configured to touch a second contact pad of theprinted circuit board 2220 only when a segment of physicalcommunications media (e.g., an MPO connector 2110) is inserted within anadapter passage 2215 and pushes the second contact location 2238 out ofthe channel 2218, which pushes the third contact location 2239 throughthe slot 2214 and against the circuit board 2220. In accordance withother aspects, the contact members 2231 are configured to form acomplete circuit with the printed circuit board 2220 regardless ofwhether a media segment is received in the passage 2215.

Referring to FIGS. 42-50, dust caps 2250 can be used to protect passages2215 of the adapter housings 2210 when fiber optic connectors 2110 orother physical media segments are not received within the passages 2215.For example, a dust cap 2250 can be configured to fit within a frontentrance or a rear entrance of each adapter passage 2215. The dust caps2250 are configured to inhibit the ingress of dust, dirt, or othercontaminants into the passage 2215. In accordance with someimplementations, the dust caps 2250 are configured not to trigger thepresence sensor/switch of the adapter 2210.

FIGS. 43-48 show one example implementation of an adapter dust cap 2250.The example dust cap 2250 includes a cover 2251 configured to fit over amouth of the passage 2215. A handle including a stem 2253 and grip 2254extend outwardly from a first side of the cover 2251. The handlefacilitates insertion and withdrawal of the dust cap 2250 from thepassage 2215.

A retaining section 2252 extends outwardly from a second side of thecover 2251. The retaining section 2252 defines a concave contour 2256extending between two fingers 2258. One or both fingers 2258 includelugs 2255 that are configured to interact with the flexible tabs 2219 ofthe adapter housing 2210 to retain the dust cap 2250 within the passage2215. In the example shown, each lug 2255 defines a ramped surface.

In some implementations, the retaining section 2252 is configured to fitwithin the passage 2215 without pressing against the second contactlocation 2238 of each contact member 2231 of the first media readinginterface 2230 (see FIG. 50). In the example shown, the retainingsection 2252 defines a sufficiently concave contour to accommodate thesecond contact location 2238 of each contact member 2231. Insertion ofthe dust cap 2250 within the passage 2215 does not cause the thirdcontact location 2239 to press against the first printed circuit board2220A. Accordingly, insertion of the dust cap 2250 does not trigger thepresence detection sensor/switch.

FIG. 50 shows a cross-sectional view of an MPO adapter housing 2210sandwiched between a first printed circuit board 2220A and a secondprinted circuit board 2220B. The MPO adapter housing 2210 defines apassage 2215, a channel 2218 extending inwardly from each connection endof the passage 2215, and slots 2214 extending through opposing ends 2212of the housing 2210. A first media reading interface 2230A is positionedin the first channel 2218 and interacts with the first printed circuitboard 2220A. A second media reading interface 2230B is positioned in thesecond channel 2218 and interacts with the second printed circuit board2220B.

FIGS. 51-79 illustrate a fourth example implementation of a connectorsystem 2000′ that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality. The example connector system2000′ includes at least one communications coupler assembly 2200′positioned between two printed circuit boards 2220′. The same referencenumbers are used herein to designate like elements on bothcommunications coupler assemblies 2200 and 2200′.

One or more example connector arrangements 2100′ (FIG. 59), whichterminate segments 1010 of communications media, are configured tocommunicatively couple to other segments of physical communicationsmedia at the one or more communications coupler assemblies 2200′. Thesame reference numbers are used herein to designate like elements onboth connector arrangements 2100 and 2100′. Accordingly, communicationsdata signals carried by the media segments 1010 terminated by theconnector arrangements 2100′ can be transmitted to other media segments.

In the example shown in FIGS. 51 and 52, eight coupler housings 2210′are sandwiched between a first printed circuit board 2220A′ and a secondprinted circuit board 2220B′ (e.g., via fasteners 2222′). In someimplementations, the first printed circuit board 2220A′ can beelectrically coupled to the second printed circuit board 2220B′ via afixed connector (e.g., a card edge connector). In other implementations,the first printed circuit board 2220A′ can be electrically coupled tothe second printed circuit board 2220B′ via a flexible or ribbon cablearrangement. In still other implementations, the printed circuit boards2220A′, 2220B′ are interconnected using other suitable circuit boardconnection techniques.

In the example shown, each coupler housing 2210′ defines a singlepassage 2215′ extending between opposite open ends. In other exampleimplementations, however, each coupler housing 2210′ can include agreater number (e.g., two, three, four, six, eight, twelve, etc.) ofpassages 2215′. Each open end of each passage 2215′ is configured toreceive a segment of communications media (e.g., a connectorized end ofan optical fiber) 1010. In other implementations, the example connectorsystem 2000′ can include greater or fewer coupler housings 2210′.

For ease in understanding, only portions of the example printed circuitboards 2220′ of the connector system 2000′ are shown in FIGS. 51 and 52.It is to be understood that the printed circuit boards 2220′electrically connect to a data processor and/or to a network interface(e.g., processor 217 and network interface 216 of FIG. 2) as part of aconnector assembly. As noted above, non-limiting examples of suchconnector assemblies include bladed chassis and drawer chassis.Furthermore, additional coupler housings 2210′ can be connected todifferent portions of the printed circuit boards 2220′ or at otherlocations within an example connector assembly.

One example coupler housing 2210′ is shown in FIGS. 53-58. In theexample shown, each coupler housing 2210′ is implemented as a fiberoptic adapter configured to receive Multi-Fiber Push-On (MPO)connectors. Each passage 2215′ of the MPO adapters 2210′ is configuredto align and connect two MPO connector arrangements 2100′ (FIG. 59). Inother implementations, each passage 2215′ can be configured to connectother types of physical media segments. For example, one or morepassages 2215′ of the MPO adapters 2200′ can be configured tocommunicatively couple together an MPO connector arrangement 2100′ witha media converter (not shown) to convert the optical data signals intoelectrical data signals, wireless data signals, or other type of datasignals.

The example coupler housing 2210′ is formed from opposing sides 2211′interconnected by first and second ends 2212′. The sides 2211′ and ends2212′ each extend between an open front and an open rear to definepassages 2215′. In the example shown in FIG. 53, the sides 2211′ aregenerally flat. The coupler housing 2210′ also defines mounting stations2217′ at which fasteners 2222′ can be received to secure the couplerhousing 2210′ to one or more printed circuit boards 2220′. For example,the mounting stations 2217′ can aid in securing the coupler housing2210′ to the upper circuit board 2220A′ and the lower circuit board2220B′ shown in FIG. 51. In the example shown, the mounting stations2217′ define one or more openings in the first and second ends 2212′ inwhich the fasteners 2222′ can be inserted. Non-limiting examples ofsuitable fasteners 2222′ include screws, snaps, and rivets. In otherimplementations, the mounting stations 2217 can include latches, panelguides, or other panel mounting arrangements.

In some implementations, flexible latching tabs 2219′ are located at theentrances of the passages 2215′ to aid in retaining connectorarrangements within the passages 2215′. In the example shown, eachlatching tab 2219′ defines a ramped surface and latching surface. Thecoupler housings 2210′ also define channels 2218′ extending partly alongthe length of the passages 2215′ (e.g., see FIGS. 55 and 58) toaccommodate portions of the fiber connector arrangements 2100′. In someimplementations, the adapter 2210′ may define a channel 2218′ extendinginwardly from each open end of the passage 2215′. In one exampleimplementation, a first channel 2218′ extends along a top of the housing2210′ from a first end of each passage 2215′ and a second channel 2218′extends along a bottom of the housing 2210′ from a second end of eachpassage 2215′.

Each adapter housing 2210′ includes at least one media reading interface2230′ (e.g., see FIG. 52) configured to acquire the physical layerinformation from a storage device 2130′ of a fiber connector arrangement2100′ (see FIGS. 59-62). In the example shown in FIG. 52, each MPOadapter 2210′ includes at least one media reading interface 2230′ thatis configured to communicate with the storage device 2130′ on an MPOconnector 2110′ plugged into the MPO adapter 2210′. For example, in oneimplementation, the adapter 2210′ can include a media reading interface2230′ associated with each passage 2215′. In another implementation, theadapter 2210′ can include a media reading interface 2230′ associatedwith each connection end of a passage 2215′.

FIGS. 59-62 show one example implementation of a connector arrangementimplemented as an MPO connector 2100′ that is configured to terminatemultiple optical fibers. As shown in FIG. 59, each MPO connector 2100′includes a connector body 2110′ enclosing a ferrule 2112′ that retainsmultiple optical fibers (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, or 16 fibers). Theconnector body 2110′ is secured to a boot 2113′ to provide bendprotection to the optical fibers.

The connector arrangement 2100′ is configured to store physical layerinformation (e.g., media information). For example, the physical layerinformation can be stored in a memory device 2130′ mounted on or in theconnector body 2110′. In the example shown in FIG. 59, the connectorbody 2110′ includes a key 2115′ configured to accommodate the storagedevice 2130′ on which the physical layer information is stored. The key2115′ includes a raised (i.e., or stepped up) portion of the connectorbody 2110′ located adjacent the ferrule 2112′. The raised portion 2115′defines a cavity 2116′ in which the storage device 2130′ can bepositioned. In some implementations, the cavity 2116′ is two-tiered(e.g., see FIGS. 60 and 62), thereby providing a shoulder on which thestorage device 2130′ can rest and space to accommodate circuitry locatedon a bottom of the storage device 2130′. In other implementations, thestorage device 2130′ can be otherwise mounted to the connector 2110′.

One example storage device 2130′ includes a printed circuit board 2131′to which memory circuitry can be arranged. In one example embodiment,the storage device 2130′ includes an EEPROM circuit arranged on theprinted circuit board 2131′. In other embodiments, however, the storagedevice 2130′ can include any suitable type of memory. In the exampleshown in FIG. 59, the memory circuitry is arranged on the non-visibleside of the printed circuit board 2131′. Electrical contacts 2132′ (FIG.59) also are arranged on the printed circuit board 2131′ for interactionwith a media reading interface 2230′ of the connector assembly 2200′.

In the example shown in FIG. 59, the contacts 2132′ define planarsurfaces extending in a front-to-rear direction. In one implementation,the contacts 2132′ are configured to promote even wear amongst thecontacts 2132′. In some implementations, the contacts 2132′ alternatebetween long and short planar surfaces. For example, contacts 2132A′ and2132C′ are longer than contacts 2132B′ and 2132D′ (see FIG. 59).

FIGS. 63-70 show the media reading interface 2230′ of the MPO adapter2200′ in accordance with some implementations. In the example shown, theMPO adapter housing 2210′ includes a first media reading interface2230A′ and a second media reading interface 2230B′. In someimplementations, the first media reading interface 2230A′ is associatedwith a first connection end of the passage 2215′ and the second mediareading interface 2230B′ is associated with a second connection end ofthe passage 2215′ (see FIGS. 68-69).

In the example shown, the second media reading interface 2230B′ isflipped (i.e., located on an opposite side of the housing 2210′)relative to the first media reading interface 2230A′ (e.g., see FIGS.68-69). In some such implementations, the channel 2218′ extendinginwardly from the first connection end of the passage 2215′ also isflipped with respect to the channel 2218′ extending inwardly from thesecond end of the passage 2215′ (e.g., see FIG. 68). In someimplementations, one or both ends 2212 of the adapter housing 2210′defines slots 2214′ (e.g., see FIGS. 53 and 58) that lead to thechannels 2218′ (see FIGS. 68 and 69). The channels 2218′ are eachconfigured to receive a media reading interface 2230′ through therespective slots 2214′.

In the example shown in FIGS. 56, 57, 68, and 69, flipping theorientation of the connectors 2110′ between the front and rear portsenables each of the major surfaces 2212′ of the adapter 2210′ to beconfigured to receive only one media reading interface 2130′ for eachpassage 2215′. For example, the media reading interfaces 2130′ for thefront ports of the passages 2215′ are accommodated by a first of themajor surfaces 2212′ and the media reading interfaces 2130′ for the rearports of the passages 2215′ are accommodated by a second of the majorsurfaces 2212′. Such a configuration enables each slot 2214′ to extendat least half-way between the front and rear of the adapter 2210′.

In other implementations, each major surface 2212′ of the adapter 2210′may accommodate the media reading interfaces 2130′ for some of the frontports and some of the rear ports. For example, in one implementation,each major surface 2212′ accommodates the media reading interfaces foralternating ones of the front and rear ports. In particular, a firstslot in the first major surface 2212′ may accommodate a media readinginterface 2130′ for a front port of a first passage 2215′ and a firstslot 2214′ in the second major surface 2212′ may accommodate a mediareading interface 2130′ for a rear port of the first passage 2215′. Asecond slot 2214′ in the first major surface 2212′ may accommodate amedia reading interface 2130′ for a rear port of a second passage 2215′and a second slot 2214′ in the second major surface 2212′ mayaccommodate a media reading interface 2130′ for a front port of thesecond passage 2215′. Such configurations also enable each slot 2214′ toextend more than half-way between the front and rear of the adapter2210′.

Lengthening the slots 2214′ enables longer contact members 2231′ to bereceived within each slot 2214′. For example, each contact member 2231may extend at least half-way across the adapter 2210′ between the frontand rear of the adapter 2210′. In certain implementations, each contactmember 2231′ may extend across a majority of the distance between thefront and rear of the adapter 2210′. Lengthening the contact members2231′ increases the beam length of each contact member 2231′. The beamlength affects the ability of the contact member 2231′ to deflect towardand away from the circuit boards 2220′.

In general, each media reading interface 2230′ is formed from one ormore contact members 2231′. Portions of the contact members 2231′ extendinto the passage 2215′ of the MPO adapter 2210′ through the respectivechannel 2218′ (e.g., see FIGS. 68-69) to engage the electrical contacts2132 of the storage member 2130′ of any MPO connector positioned in thepassage 2215′. Other portions of the contact members 2231′are configuredto protrude outwardly from the channel 2218′ through the slots 2214′ toengage contacts and tracings on a printed circuit board 2220′ associatedwith the connector assembly 2200′ (e.g., see FIG. 79).

In some implementations, the contact members 2231′ of a single mediareading interface 2230′ are positioned in a staggered configuration tofacilitate access to the contact pads 2132′ on the connector storagedevice 2130′ of a connector arrangement 2100′. For example, as shown inFIG. 70, alternating contact members 2231′ can be staggered between atleast front and rear locations within the channels 2218′. Likewise, insome implementations, the contact pads 2132′ on each storage device2130′ can be arranged in staggered positions. In other implementations,the contact pads 2132′ on each storage device 2130′ can vary in sizeand/or shape (e.g., see pads 2132′ of FIG. 59) to facilitate aone-to-one connection between the contact members 2231′ and the contactpads 2132′.

One example type of contact member 2231′ is shown in FIGS. 64-66. In oneimplementation, the contact member 2231′ defines a planar body. In oneimplementation, the contact member 2231′ is formed monolithically. Eachcontact member 2231′ defines at least three moveable contact locations2235′, 2238′, and 2239′. The flexibility of the contact surfaces 2235′,2238′, and 2239′ provides tolerance for differences in spacing betweenthe contact member 2231′ and the respective printed circuit board 2220′when the coupler assembly 2200′ is manufactured. Certain types ofcontact members 2231′ also include at least one stationary contact2233′.

In the example shown in FIGS. 68-69, two contact members 2231′ arevisibly positioned within a slot 2214′ defined in a fiber optic adapter2210′, shown in cross-section. Two additional contact members 2231′ alsoare positioned in the slot 2214′, but cannot be seen since theadditional contact members 2231′ laterally align with the visiblecontact members 2231′. In other implementations, however, greater orfewer contact members 2231′ may be positioned within the housing.

The example contact member 2231′ shown includes a base 2232′ that isconfigured to be positioned within a slot 2214′ defined by an adapter2210′. The base 2232′ of certain types of contact members 2231′ isconfigured to secure (e.g., snap-fit, latch, pressure-fit, etc.) to theadapter 1210. First and second legs 2241′, 2242′ extend from the base2232′. A first arm 2234′ extends from the first leg 2241′ and defines afirst moveable contact location 2235′ between the two legs 2241′, 2242′(e.g., at a distal end of the arm 2234′).

At least the first moveable contact location 2235′ is aligned andconfigured to extend outwardly of the adapter housing 2210′ through theslots 2214′ to touch a first contact pad on the corresponding circuitboard 2220′ (e.g., see FIG. 79). The ability of the first arm to flexrelative to the legs 2241′, 2242′ provides tolerance for placement ofthe contact member 2231′ relative to the circuit board 2220′. In certainimplementations, each of the legs 2241′, 2242′ defines a stationarycontact location 2233′ that also touches the first contact pad on thecircuit board 2220′. In one implementation, the stationary contacts2233′ and first moveable contact 2235′ provide grounding of the contactmember 2231′.

A second arm 2236′ extends from the second leg 2242′ to define aresilient section 2237′, a second moveable contact location 2238′, and athird moveable contact location 2239′. In one implementation, the secondcontact location 2238′ defines a trough located on the second leg 2234′between the resilient section 2237′ and the third contact location2239′. The resilient section 2237′ is configured to bias the secondcontact location 2238′ towards the channel 2218′ (e.g., see FIGS. 68 and69). In the example shown, the resilient section 2237′ is implemented asa looped/bent section of the second arm 2236′. In other implementations,the second arm 2236′ can otherwise include springs, reduced widthsections, or portions formed from more resilient materials.

The third contact location 2239′ is configured to be positionedinitially within the slot 2214′. The resilient section 2237′ isconfigured to bias the third contact location 2239′ through the slot2214′ to an exterior of the housing 2210′ when a connector arrangement2100′ or other media segment pushes against the second contact location2238′. For example, inserting an MPO connector 2110′ into a connectionend of a passage 2215′ of an MPO adapter 2210′ would cause the storagesection 2115′ of the connector 2110′ to slide through the channel 2218′and to engage the second contact location 2238′ of each contact member2231′ associated with that connection end of the passage 2215′. Thestorage section 2115′ would push outwardly on the second contactlocation 2238′, which would push the third contact location 2239′through the slots 2214′ and toward the printed circuit board 2220′mounted to the adapter 2210′ adjacent the slots 2214 (see FIG. 79).

As discussed above, a processor (e.g., processor 217 of FIG. 2) or othersuch equipment also can be electrically coupled to the printed circuitboard 2220′. Accordingly, the processor can communicate with the memorycircuitry on the storage device 2130′ via the contact members 2231′ andthe printed circuit board 2220. In accordance with some aspects, theprocessor is configured to obtain physical layer information from thestorage device 2130′. In accordance with other aspects, the processor isconfigured to write (e.g., new or revised) physical layer information tothe storage device 2130′. In accordance with other aspects, theprocessor is configured to delete physical layer information to thestorage device 2130′. In one example implementation, at least a firstcontact member 2231′ transfers power, at least a second contact member2231′ transfers data, and at least a third contact member 2231′ providegrounding. However, any suitable number of contact members 2231′ can beutilized within each media reading interface 2230′.

In accordance with some aspects, the contact members 2231′ areconfigured to selectively form a complete circuit with one or more ofthe printed circuit boards 2220′. For example, each printed circuitboard 2220′ may include two contact pads for each contact member. Incertain implementations, a first portion of each contact member 2231′touches a first of the contact pads and a second portion of each contactmember 2231′ selectively touches a second of the contact pads. Theprocessor coupled to the circuit board 2220′ may determine when thecircuit is complete. Accordingly, the contact members 2231′ can functionas presence detection sensors for determining whether a media segmenthas been inserted into the passages 2215′.

In certain implementations, the first moveable contact 2235′ of eachcontact member is configured to contact one of the contact pads of thecircuit board 2220′. In one implementation, the first moveable contactlocation 2235′ is configured to permanently touch the contact pad aslong as the circuit board 2220′ and contact member 2231′ are assembledon the adapter 2210′. The third contact location 2239′ of certain typesof contact members 2231′ is configured to touch a second contact pad ofthe printed circuit board 2220′ only when a segment of physicalcommunications media (e.g., an MPO connector 2110′) is inserted withinan adapter passage 2215′ and pushes the second contact location 2238′out of the channel 2218, which pushes the third contact location 2239′through the slot 2214′ and against the circuit board 2220′. Inaccordance with other aspects, the contact members 2231′ are configuredto form a complete circuit with the printed circuit board 2220′regardless of whether a media segment is received in the passage 2215′.

Referring to FIGS. 71-79, dust caps 2250′ can be used to protectpassages 2215′ of the adapter housings 2210′ when fiber optic connectors2110′ or other physical media segments are not received within thepassages 2215′. For example, a dust cap 2250′ can be configured to fitwithin a front entrance or a rear entrance of each adapter passage2215′. The dust caps 2250′ are configured to inhibit the ingress ofdust, dirt, or other contaminants into the passage 2215′. In accordancewith some implementations, the dust caps 2250′ are configured not totrigger the presence sensor/switch of the adapter 2210′.

FIGS. 72-77 show one example implementation of an adapter dust cap2250′. The example dust cap 2250′ includes a cover 2251′ configured tofit over a mouth of the passage 2215′. A handle including a stem 2253′and grip 2254′ extend outwardly from a first side of the cover 2251′.The handle facilitates insertion and withdrawal of the dust cap 2250′from the passage 2215′. In the example shown, an outer side of the grip2254′ is generally flat. In other embodiments, the grip 2254′ can becontoured, textured, or otherwise non-planar.

A retaining section 2252′ extends outwardly from a second side of thecover 2251′. The retaining section 2252′ defines a concave contour 2256′extending between two fingers 2258′. One or both fingers 2258′ includelugs 2255′ that are configured to interact with the flexible tabs 2219′of the adapter housing 2210′ to retain the dust cap 2250′ within thepassage 2215′. In the example shown, each lug 2255′ defines a rampedsurface.

In some implementations, the retaining section 2252′ is configured tofit within the passage 2215′ without pressing against the second contactlocation 2238′ of each contact member 2231′ of the first media readinginterface 2230′ (see FIG. 79). In the example shown, the retainingsection 2252′ defines a sufficiently concave contour to accommodate thesecond contact location 2238′ of each contact member 2231′. Insertion ofthe dust cap 2250′ within the passage 2215′ does not cause the thirdcontact location 2239′ to press against the first printed circuit board2220A′. Accordingly, insertion of the dust cap 2250′ does not triggerthe presence detection sensor/switch.

FIG. 79 shows a cross-sectional view of an MPO adapter housing 2210′sandwiched between a first printed circuit board 2220A′ and a secondprinted circuit board 2220B′. The MPO adapter housing 2210′ defines apassage 2215′, a channel 2218′ extending inwardly from each connectionend of the passage 2215′, and slots 2214′ extending through opposingends 2212′ of the housing 2210′. A first media reading interface 2230A′is positioned in the first channel 2218′ and interacts with the firstprinted circuit board 2220A′. A second media reading interface 2230B′ ispositioned in the second channel 2218′ and interacts with the secondprinted circuit board 2220B′.

FIGS. 80-102 illustrate a fifth example implementation of a connectorsystem 3000 that can be utilized on a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel) having PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality. One example connector assembly on which the connectorsystem 3000 can be implemented is a bladed chassis. The connector system3000 includes at least one example communications coupler assembly 3200and at least two connector arrangements 3100.

The communications coupler assembly 3200 is configured to be mounted toa connector assembly, such as a communications blade or a communicationspanel. One or more connector arrangements 3100, which terminate segments3010 of communications media, are configured to communicatively coupleto other segments of physical communications media at the couplerassembly 3200 (e.g., see FIGS. 91-92). Accordingly, communications datasignals carried by a media segment 3010 terminated by a first connectorarrangement 3100 can be propagated to another media segment 3010 (e.g.,terminated by a second connector arrangement 3100) through thecommunications coupler assembly 3200.

In accordance with some aspects, each connector arrangement 3100 isconfigured to terminate a single segment of physical communicationsmedia. For example, each connector arrangement 3100 can include a singleconnector 3110 that terminates a single optical fiber or a singleelectrical conductor. In one example implementation, each connectorarrangement 3100 includes a single LC-type fiber optic connector 3110that terminates a single optical fiber. In accordance with otheraspects, each connector arrangement 3100 includes two or more connectors3110, each of which terminates a single segment of physicalcommunications media. For example, each connector arrangement 3100 maydefines a duplex fiber optic connector arrangement including twoconnectors 3110, each of which terminates an optical fiber 3010. Inother implementations, the connectors 3110 can be an SC-type, anST-type, an FC-type, an LX.5-type, etc.

In accordance with still other aspects, each connector arrangement 3100can include one or more connectors, each of which terminates a pluralityof physical media segments (e.g., see connector arrangement 2100, 2100′,and 5100 of FIGS. 31, 59, and 133). In one example implementation, eachconnector arrangement includes a single MPO-type fiber optic connectorthat terminates multiple optical fibers. In still other systems, othertypes of connector arrangements (e.g., electrical connectorarrangements) can be secured to the communications coupler assembly 3200or to a different type of connector assembly.

In accordance with some aspects, each communications coupler assembly3200 is configured to form a single link between segments of physicalcommunications media 3010. For example, each communications couplerassembly 3200 can define a single passage at which a first connectorarrangement is coupled to a second connector arrangement. In accordancewith other aspects, however, each communications coupler assembly 3200is configured to form two or more links between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 80, thecommunications coupler assembly 3200 defines four passages 3215.

In some implementations, each passage 3215 of the communications couplerassembly 3200 is configured to form a single link between first andsecond connector arrangements 3100. In other example implementations,two or more passages 3215 can form a single link between connectorarrangements 3100 (e.g., two ports can form a link between duplexconnector arrangements). In still other example implementations, eachcommunications coupler assembly 3200 can form a one-to-many link. Forexample, the communications coupler assembly 3200 can connect a duplexconnector arrangement to two single connector arrangements.

Example implementations of connector arrangements 3100 are shown inFIGS. 81-88. Each of the connector arrangements 3100 includes one ormore fiber optic connectors 3110, each of which terminates one or moreoptical fibers 3010. In the example shown in FIGS. 80-82, each connectorarrangement 3100 defines a duplex fiber optic connector arrangementincluding two fiber optic connectors 3110 held together using a clip3150. In another example implementation, a connector arrangement 3100can define a single fiber optic connector 3110.

As shown in FIG. 82, each fiber optic connector 3110 includes aconnector body 3111 protecting a ferrule 3112 that retains an opticalfiber 3010. The connector body 3111 is secured to a boot 3113 forproviding bend protection to the optical fiber 3010. In the exampleshown, the connector 3110 is an LC-type fiber optic connector. Theconnector body 3111 includes a fastening member (e.g., clip arm) 3114that facilitates retaining the fiber optic connector 3110 within apassage 3215 in the communications coupler assembly 3200. The connectorbody 3111 also defines a through hole (or opposing depressions) 3117 tofacilitate maintaining the body 3111 within the clip 3150 (e.g., seeFIG. 82).

One example clip 3150 is shown in FIGS. 80 and 82. The clip 3150includes a body 3151 that defines openings or channels 3152 throughwhich portions 3119 of the fiber optic connector bodies 3111 can extend(see FIG. 82). In the example shown, the clip 3150 has a monolithic body3151 defining two channels 3152 separated by an interior wall 3156. Lugs3157 are positioned on the inner surfaces of the exterior walls of thebody 3151 and on both sides of the interior wall 3156. The lugs 3157 areconfigured to engage cavities/depressions 3117 defined in the fiberoptic connector bodies 3111 to secure the connector bodies 3111 withinthe clip body 3151. A flange 3153 curves upwardly and forwardly toextend over the fastening members 3114 of the connectors 3110 (see FIG.81). The flange 3153 is sufficiently flexible to enable the applicationof pressure on the clip arms 3114 of the connectors 3110 by pressing ona distal end of the flange 3153.

Each connector arrangement 3100 is configured to store physical layerinformation. For example, a storage device 3130 may be installed on orin the body 3111 of one or more of the fiber optic connectors 3110 ofeach connector arrangement 3100. In the example shown, the storagedevice 3130 is installed on only one fiber optic connector 3110 of aduplex connector arrangement 3100. In other implementations, however, astorage device 3130 may be installed on each fiber optic connector 3110of a connector arrangement 3100.

One example storage device 3130 includes a printed circuit board 3131 onwhich memory circuitry can be arranged (see FIG. 82). Electricalcontacts 3132 also are arranged on the printed circuit board 3131 forinteraction with a media reading interface of the communications couplerassembly 3200 (described in more detail herein). In one exampleimplementation, the storage device 3130 includes an EEPROM circuit 3133arranged on the printed circuit board 3131. In the example shown in FIG.82, an EEPROM circuit 3133 is arranged on the non-visible side of thecircuit board 3131. In other implementations, however, the storagedevice 3130 can include any suitable type of non-volatile memory.

FIGS. 83-88 show three different implementations of an example storagedevice 3130 installed on an example connector 3110. FIGS. 83 and 84 showa first example connector 3110A that includes a key 3115 having a widthW4. The key 3115 has a front surface 3118 against which contacts withinthe communications coupler assembly 3200 deflect during insertion of theconnector 3110 as will be described in more detail herein. In theexample shown, the deflection surface 3118 defines a bullnose. In otherimplementations, the deflection surface 3118 may define any suitableshape. The key 3115 also defines a recessed section or cavity 3116A inwhich a storage device 3130A can be positioned. In the example shown inFIG. 84, the cavity 3116A is defined in the key 3115 and not thedeflecting surface 3118. In some implementations, a cover can bepositioned over the storage device 3130A to enclose the storage device3130A within the connector 3111. In other implementations, the storagedevice 3130A is left exposed.

The storage device 3130A shown in FIG. 84 includes generally planarcontacts 3132A positioned on a generally planar circuit board 3131A. Inthe example shown, the contacts 3132A have two different lengths. Inother implementations, however, the contacts 3132A may all be the samelength or may each be a different length. The memory 3133 of the storagedevice 3130A, which is located on the non-visible side of the board inFIG. 84, is accessed by engaging the tops of the contacts 3132A with anelectrically conductive contact member (e.g., contact member 3231 ofFIG. 96). In certain implementations, the contact member 3231 initiallycontacts the deflecting surface 3118 and subsequently slides or wipesacross the contacts 3132A.

FIGS. 85 and 86 show a second example connector 3110B that includes akey 3115 having a deflection surface 3118. The key 3115 defines arecessed section or cavity 3116B in which a storage device 3130B can bepositioned. In the example shown, the cavity 3116B cuts into thedeflecting surface 3118 of the key 3115. In some implementations, acover can be positioned over the storage device 3130B to enclose thestorage device 3130B within the connector 3111. In otherimplementations, the storage device 3130B is left exposed.

The storage device 3130B shown in FIG. 86 includes contacts 3132B havingelongated sections 3135B that extend over a generally planar circuitboard 3131B and folded sections 3134B that curve, fold, or bend over afront end 3136B of the board 3131B. In the example shown, the elongatedsections 3135 of the contacts 3132B have two different lengths. In otherimplementations, however, the elongated sections 3135 of the contacts3132B may all be the same length or may each be a different length. Thememory 3133 of the storage device 3130B, which is located on thenon-visible side of the board in FIG. 86, is accessed by sliding orwiping the contact member 3231 (FIG. 96) across the folded sections 3134of the contacts 3132B.

FIGS. 87 and 88 show a third example connector 3110C that includes a key3115 having a deflection wall 3118. The key 3115 defines a recessedsection or cavity 3116C in which a storage device 3130C can bepositioned. In the example shown, the cavity 3116C cuts into thedeflection wall 3118 of the key 3115. In some implementations, a covercan be positioned over the storage device 3130C to enclose the storagedevice 3130C within the connector 3111. In other implementations, thestorage device 3130C is left exposed.

The storage device 3130C shown in FIG. 88 includes contacts 3132C havingfirst sections 3135C that extend over a generally planar circuit board3131C and contoured sections 3134C that curve, fold, or bend over acontoured section 3136 at the front of the board 3131C. In the exampleshown, the first sections 3135C of the contacts 3132C have two differentlengths. In other implementations, however, the first sections 3135C ofthe contacts 3132C may all be the same length or may each be a differentlength. The memory of the storage device 3130C, which is located on thenon-visible side of the board in FIG. 88, is accessed by sliding orwiping the contact member 3231 (FIG. 96) across the contoured section3134C of the contacts 3132C.

FIGS. 89-94 show one example implementation of a communications couplerassembly 3200 implemented as a fiber optic adapter. The examplecommunications coupler assembly 3200 includes an adapter housing 3210defining one or more passages 3215 configured to align and interface twoor more fiber optic connectors 3110 (e.g., see FIG. 80). In otherexample implementations, however, one or more passages 3215 can beconfigured to communicatively couple together a fiber optic connector3110 with a media converter (not shown) to convert the optical datasignals into electrical data signals, wireless data signals, or othersuch data signals. In other implementations, however, the communicationscoupler assembly 3200 can include an electrical termination block thatis configured to receive punch-down wires, electrical plugs (e.g., forelectrical jacks), or other types of electrical connectors.

The example adapter housing 3210 shown in FIGS. 89-95 is formed fromopposing sides 3211 interconnected by first and second ends 3212. Thesides 3211 and ends 3212 each extend between a front and a rear. Theadapter housing 3210 defines one or more passages 3215 extending betweenthe front and rear ends. Each end of each passage 3215 is configured toreceive a connector arrangement or portion thereof (e.g., one fiberoptic connector 3110 of duplex connector arrangement 3100 of FIG. 80).In the example shown, the adapter housing 3210 defines four passages3215. In other implementations, however, the adapter housing 3210 maydefine one, two, three, six, eight, ten, twelve, sixteen, or even moreports. Sleeves (e.g., split sleeves) 3206 are positioned within thepassages 3215 to receive and align the ferrules 3112 of fiber opticconnectors 3110 (see FIG. 93).

In the example shown, the body 3210 of the fiber optic adapter 3200defines four passages 3215. In other implementations, the body 3210 candefine greater or fewer passages 3215. For example, in some exampleimplementations, the body 3210 of the fiber optic adapter 3200 candefine a single passage 3215 that is configured to optically coupletogether two fiber optic connectors 3110. In other exampleimplementations, the fiber optic adapter 3200 can define two, eight, ortwelve passages 3215 that are each configured to optically coupletogether two fiber optic connectors 3110. In certain implementations,the adapter housing 3210 also defines latch engagement channels 3217 ateach port to facilitate retention of the latch arms 3114 of the fiberoptic connectors 3110. Each latch engagement channel 3217 is sized andshaped to receive the key 3115 of the connector 3110.

The fiber optic adapter 3210 includes one or more media readinginterfaces 3230, each configured to acquire the physical layerinformation from the storage device 3130 of a fiber optic connector 3110plugged into the fiber optic adapter 3210. For example, in oneimplementation, the adapter 3210 can include a media reading interface3230 associated with each passage 3215. In another implementation, theadapter 3210 can include a media reading interface 3230 associated witheach connection end of each passage 3215. In still otherimplementations, the adapter 3210 can include a media reading interface3230 associated with each set of passages 3215 that accommodate aconnector arrangement 3100.

For example, the quadruplex adapter 3210 shown in FIG. 91 includes amedia reading interface 3230A at the front connection end of twopassages 3215 to interface with two duplex fiber optic connectorarrangements 3100 received thereat and two media reading interfaces3230B at the rear connection end of two passages 3215 to interface withtwo duplex fiber optic connector arrangements 3100 received thereat. Inanother implementation, one side of the adapter housing 3210 can includetwo media reading interfaces 3230 to interface with two duplex fiberoptic connector arrangements 1100 and another side of the adapterhousing 3210 can include four media reading interfaces to interface withfour fiber optic connectors 3110. In other implementations, the adapterhousing 3210 can include any desired combination of front and rear mediareading interfaces 3230.

In general, each media reading interface 3230 is formed from one or morecontact members 3231 (see FIG. 96). In certain implementations, a topsurface of the coupler housing 3210 defines slots 3214 configured toreceive one or more contact members 3231. When a connector 3110 with astorage device 3130 is inserted into one of the passages 3215, thecontact pads 3132 of the storage device 3130 are configured to alignwith the slots 3214 defined in the adapter housing 3210. Accordingly,the contact members 3231 held within the slots 3214 align with thecontact pads 3132.

At least a portion of each slot 3214 extends through the top surface tothe passage 3215. In the example shown in FIG. 93, the top surface has athickness (material height) H. In some implementations, the thickness Hof the top surface is at least about 0.5 mm (about 0.02 inches). Indeed,in some implementations, the thickness H of the top surface is at leastabout 0.76 mm (about 0.3 inches). In certain implementations, thethickness H of the top surface is about to 0.5 mm to about 2 mm (about0.02 to about 0.08 inches). Indeed, in certain implementations, thethickness H of the top surface is about 1 mm to about 1.5 mm (0.04inches to about 0.06 inches). In one example implementation, thethickness H of the top surface is about 1 mm (0.04 inches). In certainimplementations, the thickness H of the top surface is at least 1.27 mm(0.05 inches).

In some implementations, the media reading interface 3230 includesmultiple contact members 3231. For example, in certain implementations,the media reading interface 3230 includes at least a first contactmember 3231 that transfers power, at least a second contact member 3231that transfers data, and at least a third contact member 3231 thatprovides grounding. In one implementation, the media reading interface3230 includes a fourth contact member. In other implementations, themedia reading interface 3230 include greater or fewer contact members3231.

In some implementations, each contact member 3231 is retained within aseparate slot 3214. For example, in the implementation shown in FIGS.89-95, each media reading interface 3230 includes four contact members3231 that are held in a set 3213 of four slots 3214 that align with fourcontact pads 3132 (see FIG. 84) on a connector storage device 3130. Theslots 3214 in each set 3213 are separated by intermediate walls 3216(FIGS. 92 and 94). In other implementations, each contact member 3231 ina single media reading interface 3230 may be retained in a single slot.

In some implementations, the adapter housing 3210 has more sets 3213 ofslots 3214 than media reading interfaces 3230. For example, in someimplementations, each adapter housing 3210 defines a set 3213 of slots3214 at each connection end of each passage 3215. In otherimplementations, however, the adapter housing 3210 may have the samenumber of slot sets 3213 and media reading interfaces 3231. For example,in certain implementations, each adapter housing 3210 may defines a set3213 of slots 3214 at only one connection end of each passage 3215. Inother implementations, the adapter housing 3210 may define a set 3213 ofslots 3214 at each connection end of alternate passages 3215.

In some implementations, the contact members 3231 of a single mediareading interface 3230 are positioned in a staggered configuration. Sucha staggered configuration may facilitate alignment of the contactmembers 3231 with staggered contact pads 3132 (see FIG. 84) of aconnector storage device 3130 positioned in the respective passage 3215.In some implementations, the slots 3214 accommodating the staggeredcontact members 3231 also are staggered. For example, as shown in FIGS.91-92, alternating slots 3214 can be staggered in a front to reardirection. In other implementations, however, the slots 3214accommodating the staggered contacts 3231 may each have a common lengththat is longer than a length of the staggered arrangement of contactmembers 3231. In still other implementations, the front and rear ends ofthe contact members 3231 of a single media reading interface 3230 aretransversely aligned within similarly transversely aligned slots 3214.

In the example shown in FIG. 91, the slots 3214 defined at frontconnection ends of the adapter passages 3215 axially align with slots3214 defined at the rear connection ends. In other implementations,however, the slots 3214 at the front connection ends may be staggeredfrom the slots 3214 at the rear connection ends. As shown in FIGS. 92and 93, at least one support wall 3205 separates the forward slots 3214from the rearward slots 3214. Each support wall 3205 extends from theslotted surface of the adapter housing 3210 to at least the split sleeve3206.

In some implementations, a single support wall 3205 extends along acenter of the adapter housing 3210 transverse to the insertion axisA_(I) (FIG. 89) of the passages 3215. For example, a single support wall3205 may extend through an adapter housing 3210 that definestransversely aligned slots 3214. In other implementations, one or moresupport walls 3205 may extend between slots 3214 arranged in a staggeredconfiguration. In the example shown, adjacent support walls 3205 areoffset from each other along an insertion axis of the passages 3215 toaccommodate the staggered slots 3214 arrangements. In certainimplementations, the support walls 3205 may connect to or be continuouswith the intermediate walls 3216.

As shown in FIG. 94, each set 3213 of slots 3214 accommodating one mediareading interface 3230 has a width W1 and each slot 3214 has a width W2.Intermediate walls 3216, which separate the slots 3214 of each set 3213,each have a width W3. In general, the width W1 of each set 3213 of slots3214 is smaller than the width W4 of the key 3115 of the connector 3110positioned in the respective adapter passage 3215. In someimplementations, the width W1 of each set 3213 of slots 3214 is lessthan 3.35 mm (0.13 inches). Indeed, in some implementations, the widthW1 of each set 3213 of slots 3214 is less than about 3.1 mm (0.12inches). In certain implementations, the width W1 of each set 3213 ofslots 3214 is no more than about 2.5 mm (0.10 inches). In one exampleimplementation, the width W1 of each set 3213 of slots 3214 is no morethan 2.2 mm (0.09 inches). In one example implementation, the width W1of each set 3213 of slots 3214 is about 2 mm (0.08 inches). In oneexample implementation, the width W1 of each set 3213 of slots 3214 isabout 2.1 mm (0.081 inches).

In certain implementations, the width W3 of the intermediate walls 3216is smaller than the width W2 of the slots 3214. In some implementations,the width W2 of each slot 3214 is within the range of about 0.25 mm(0.010 inches) to about 0.64 mm (0.025 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the width W2 of each slot 3214 is within the range ofabout 0.25 mm (0.010 inches) to about 0.48 mm (0.019 inches). In oneimplementation, the width W2 of each slot is about 0.3 mm (0.012inches). In one implementation, the width W2 of each slot is about 0.28mm (0.011 inches). In one implementation, the width W2 of each slot isabout 0.33 mm (0.013 inches).

In some implementations, the width W3 of each intermediate wall 3216 iswithin the range of about 0.13 mm (0.005) inches to about 0.38 mm (0.015inches). In one implementation, the width W3 of each intermediate wall3216 is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches). In one implementation, the widthW3 of each intermediate wall 3216 is about 0.28 mm (0.011 inches). Inone implementation, the width W3 of each intermediate wall 3216 is about0.28 mm (0.011 inches). In one implementation, the width W3 of eachintermediate wall 3216 is about 0.33 mm (0.013 inches). In oneimplementation, the width W3 of each intermediate wall 3216 is about0.25 mm (0.010 inches).

As shown in FIG. 95, a printed circuit board 3220 is configured tosecure (e.g., via fasteners 3222) to the adapter housing 3210. In someimplementations, the example adapter housing 3210 includes two annularwalls 3218 in which the fasteners 3222 can be inserted to hold theprinted circuit board 3220 to the adapter housing 3210. Non-limitingexamples of suitable fasteners 3222 include screws, snaps, and rivets.For ease in understanding, only a portion of the printed circuit board3220 is shown in FIG. 95. It is to be understood that the printedcircuit board 3220 electrically connects to a data processor and/or to anetwork interface (e.g., the processor 217 and network interface 216 ofFIG. 2). It is further to be understood that multiple communicationscoupler housings 3210 can be connected to the printed circuit board 3220within a connector assembly (e.g., a communications panel).

The contact members 3231 extend between the slotted surface of theadapter housing 3210 and the passages 3215. Portions of each contactmember 3231 engage contacts and tracings on the printed circuit board3220 mounted to the slotted surface of the adapter housing 3210. Otherportions of the contact members 3231 engage the electrical contacts 3132of the storage members 3130 attached to any connector arrangements 3100positioned in the passages 3215 (see FIG. 101). A processor coupled tothe circuit board 3220 can access the memory 3133 of each connectorarrangement 3100 through corresponding ones of the contact members 3231.

In accordance with some aspects, the media reading interfaces 3230 ofthe adapter are configured to detect when a connector arrangement isinserted into one or more passages 3215. Accordingly, the contactmembers 3231 can function as presence detection sensors or triggerswitches. In some implementations, the contact members 3231 of a mediareading interface 3230 are configured to form a complete circuit withthe circuit board 3220 only when a connector 3110 is inserted within arespective passage 3215. For example, at least a portion of each contactmember 3231 may be configured to contact the circuit board 3220 onlyafter being pushed toward the circuit board 3220 by a connector 3210. Inother example implementations, portions of the contact members 3231 canbe configured to complete a circuit until pushed away from the circuitboard 3220 or a shorting rod by a connector 3110. In accordance withother aspects, however, some implementations of the contact members 3231may be configured to form a complete circuit with the circuit board 3220regardless of whether a connector 3110 is received in a passage 3215.

In the example shown in FIG. 89, each media reading interface 3230 ofthe fiber optic adapter 3200 includes four contact members 3231 and eachstorage device 3130 of the fiber optic connector 3110 includes fourcontact pads 3132 (FIGS. 80-88). In certain implementations, a firstcontact member 3231A and a third contact member 3231C of the mediareading interface 3230 are mounted at first positions with the slot3214. A second contact member 3231B and a fourth contact member 3231D ofthe media reading interface 3230 are mounted at second positions withinthe slot 3214 (e.g., compare the positions of the two contact members3231A-3231D shown in FIG. 89). Likewise, the contact pads 3132 on thestorage devices 3130A, 3130B, 3130C shown in FIGS. 80-88 include longerpads and narrower pads that are accommodated by the staggered positionsof the contact members 1231. In other implementations, however, thecontact members 3231 may be laterally aligned and/or the contact pads3132 may be a common length.

In the example shown in FIGS. 97-100, at least portions of two contactmembers 3231 are visibly positioned within a slot 3214 defined in afiber optic adapter 3210, shown in cross-section. Two additional contactmembers 3231 also are positioned in the slot 3214, but cannot be seensince the additional contact members 3231 laterally align with thevisible contact members 3231. In other implementations, however, greateror fewer contact members 3231 may be positioned within the housing.

One example type of contact member 3231 is shown in FIG. 96. Eachcontact member 3231 defines at least three moveable (e.g., flexible)contact locations 3233, 3235, and 3236. The flexibility of the contactsurfaces 3233, 3235, and 3236 provides tolerance for differences inspacing between the contact member 3231 and the respective printedcircuit board 3220 when the coupler assembly 3200 is manufactured.Certain types of contact members 3231 also include at least onestationary contact 3237.

The first contact surface 3233 is configured to extend through the slot3214 and engage the circuit board 3220. The third contact surface 3236is configured to selectively extend through the slot 3214 and engage thecircuit board 3220. For example, the third contact surface 3236 may beconfigured to engage the circuit board 3220 when a connector 3110 isinserted into a passage 3215 corresponding with the contact member 3231.The second contact surface 3235 is configured to extend into the passage3215 and engage the connector 3110 positioned in the passage 3215. If astorage device 3130 is installed on the connector 3110, then the secondcontact surface 3235 is configured to engage the contact pads 3132 ofthe storage device 3130.

The example contact member 3231 includes a resilient section 3234 thatbiases the third contact surface 3236 upwardly through the slot 3214(e.g., toward the circuit board 3220). A force applied to the second arm3247 transfers to the first arm 3246 through the resilient section 3234.In some implementations, the resilient section 3234 defines at least apartial arc. For example, in the implementation shown in FIG. 96, theresilient section defines a half-circular section. In otherimplementations, the resilient section 3234 defines a series of curvesand/or bends. In some implementations, the resilient section 3234 alsodefines a biasing surface 3239 that is configured to press against thefirst arm 3246 to bias the third contact surface 3236 upwardly.

The example contact member 3231 is configured to seat in one of theslots 3214 of the adapter housing 3210. For example, the contact member3231 includes a base 3232 that is configured to abut the support wall3205 of the adapter housing 3210 (e.g., see FIG. 98). In oneimplementation, the side of the base 3232 that abuts the support wall3205 is flat. In another implementation, the side of the base 3232 thatabuts the support wall 3205 defines one or more notches. One end 3237 ofthe base is configured to extend through the slot 3214 and contact thecircuit board 3220 to provide grounding for the contact member 3231.

Another end of the base 3232 defines an attachment section 3238 thatengages a portion of the support wall 3205 to secure the contact member3231 within the slot 3214. In some implementations, the attachmentsection 3238 of the contact member 3231 includes a first leg 3241 and asecond leg 3243 extending from the base 3232 (FIG. 96). In oneimplementation, the first leg 3241 defines a bump 3242. In oneimplementation, the attachment section 3238 is configured to snap-fitinto the support wall 3205. In other implementations, the attachmentsection 3238 may otherwise mount to the support wall 3205.

The example contact member 3231 also includes a third leg 3244 thatextends outwardly from the base 3232 generally parallel with the secondleg 3243. A distal end of the third leg 3244 bends or curves upwardlytoward the circuit board 3220. In the example shown, the third leg 3244is generally J-shaped. In other implementations, the third leg 3244 maybe L-shaped, C-shaped, V-shaped, etc. The first contact surface 3233 isdefined at the distal end of the third leg 3244. In the example shown,the distal end of the third leg 3244 defines an arched or ball-shapedfirst contact surface 3233.

The contact member 3231 also includes a fourth leg 3245 that extendsoutwardly from the base 3232 between the second and third legs 3243,3244. In the example shown, the fourth leg 3245 extends generallyparallel to the second and third legs 3243, 3244. The fourth leg 3245separates into first arm 3246, which defines the third contact surface3236, and a second arm 3247, which defines the second contact surface3235. The first arm 3246 extends upwardly from the fourth leg 3245towards the circuit board 3220. For example, in some implementations,the first arm 3246 arcs upwardly into a planar extension that terminatesat the third contact surface 3236. In the example shown, the thirdcontact surface 3236 defines an arched or ball-shaped distal end of thefirst arm 3246.

The second arm 3247 initially extends away from the base 3232 andsubsequently extends back towards the base 3232 to increase the beamlength of the contact 3231. For example, in some implementations, thesecond arm 3247 extends downwardly into the resilient section 3234 andupwardly into the biasing surface 3239. From the biasing surface 3239,the second arm 3247 curves (i.e., arcs, angles, etc.) downwardly andback toward the base 3232 along an extension 3248 and forms a trough3249 beneath the resilient section 3234. The trough 3249 defines thesecond contact surface 3235. In certain implementations, the inner sidesof the trough 3249 are configured to abut against the resilient section3234 when a connector 3110 is positioned in the passage 3215 to aid inpushing the biasing surface 3239 against the first arm 3246.

In certain implementation, the contact member 3231 defines a planarbody. In certain implementations, the contact member 3231 is formedmonolithically (e.g., from a continuous sheet of metal). For example, insome implementations, the contact member 3231 may be manufactured bycutting a planar sheet of metal or other material. In otherimplementations, the contact member 3231 may be manufactured by etchinga planar sheet of metal or other material. In other implementations, thecontact member 3231 may be manufactured by laser trimming a planar sheetof metal or other material. In still other implementations, the contactmember 3231 may be manufactured by stamping a planar sheet of metal orother material.

FIGS. 97-100 illustrate the example contact member 3231 positioned in aslot 3214 of an adapter 3210 before and after insertion of a connector3110 in a passage 3215 of the adapter 3210. In the example shown, thefirst leg 3241 of the attachment section 3238 extends generallyvertically and the second leg 3243 extends generally horizontally (e.g.,see FIGS. 98 and 100). In some implementations, the support wall 3205 ofthe adapter housing 3210 defines a recess or channel 3208 and anextension 3207. When the attachment section 3238 is mounted to thesupport wall 3205, the first leg 3241 of the attachment section 3238fits in the recess 3208 and the second leg 3242 seats on the extension3207. When first contact surface 3233 extends through the slot 3214 andcontacts the circuit board 3220.

In some implementations, a support portion 3209 of the adapter housing3210 projects partially into the passages 3215 opposite the support wall3205. The support portion 3209 defines a ledge 3219 recessed within eachslot 3214. The distal end of the first arm 3246 seats on the ledge 3219spaced from the circuit board 3220 when a connector 3110 is notpositioned within a respective passage 3215 (see FIG. 98). Inserting aconnector 3110 into the passage 3215 biases the distal end of the firstarm 3246 upwardly from the ledge 3219 toward the circuit board 3220 (seeFIG. 100). In certain implementations, biasing the distal end of thefirst arm 3246 upwardly causes the third contact surface 3236 to engage(e.g., touch or slide against) the circuit board 3220.

The trough 3249 of the second arm 3247 extends into the passage 3215associated with the slot 3214. Inserting the connector 3110 into thepassage 3215 causes the deflection surface 3118 of the key 3115 on theconnector 3110 to press against an outer surface of the trough 3249 (seeFIG. 98). The deflection surface 3118 presses the trough 3249 upwardlyand toward the support wall 3205. An inner surface of the trough 3249abuts against and applies an upwardly directed pressure to the resilientsection 3234 of the contact member 3231. The upward pressure on thetrough 3249 also applies an upward pressure on the biasing surface 3239.The resilient section 3234 and the biasing surface 3239 bias the distalend of the first arm 3246 of the contact member 3231 through the slot3214 to slide or wipe across the circuit board 3220 (see FIG. 100).Accordingly, the presence of the connector 3110 in the passage 3215 maybe detected when the deflection surface 3118 of the connector key 3115engages the contact member 3231.

In some implementations, the connector 3110 does not include a storagedevice 3130. For example, the connector 3110 may be part of a duplexconnector arrangement 3100 in which the other connector 3110 holds thestorage device 3130. In other implementations, however, the connector3110 may include a storage device 3130. In such implementations, thesecond contact surface 3235 of the contact member 3231 slides or wipesacross the surface of the contacts 3132 of the storage device 3130during insertion (see FIG. 101).

In some implementations, the storage device 3130 is stored in a cavitydefined only in a top of the key 3115. In such implementations, thesecond contact surface 3235 of the connector 3130 is defined by thebottom of the trough 3249, which slides across the contacts 3132 of thestorage device 3130 after the trough 3249 is deflected by the deflectionsurface 3118 of the key 3115. Accordingly, the presence of the connector3110 within the passage 3215 may be detected before the memory 3133 ofthe storage device 3130 can be accessed.

In other implementations, the storage device 3130 is accessible througha recess in the deflection surface 3118. In such implementations, thesecond contact surface 3235 of the connector 3130 is defined by theleading edge of the trough 3249, which touches the storage devicecontacts 3132 as the trough 3249 is being deflected by the deflectionsurface 3118. Accordingly, the presence of the connector 3110 within thepassage 3215 may be detected at approximately the same time that thememory 3133 of the storage device 3130 can be accessed.

Removing the connector 3110 from the passage 3215 releases the trough3249 from the upwardly biased position (see FIG. 100), thereby allowingthe trough 3249 to move back to its unbiased position (see FIG. 98).When in the unbiased position, the trough 3249 no longer applies upwardpressure to the resilient section 3234 and the biasing surface 3239.Accordingly, the resilient section 3234 and biasing surface 3239 allowthe distal end of the first arm 3246 to drop into the slot 3214 and restagainst the ledge 3219 (see FIG. 98). Dropping the first arm 3246disengages the third contact surface 3236 from the circuit board 3220,thereby interrupting the circuit created by the contact member 3231.Interrupting the circuit enables a processor connected to the circuitboard 3220 to determine that the connector 3110 has been removed fromthe passage 3215.

As discussed above, a processor (e.g., processor 217 of FIG. 2) or othersuch equipment also can be electrically coupled to the printed circuitboard 3220. Accordingly, the processor can communicate with the memorycircuitry 3133 on the storage device 3130 via the contact members 3231and the printed circuit board 3220. In accordance with some aspects, theprocessor is configured to obtain physical layer information from thestorage device 3130. In accordance with other aspects, the processor isconfigured to write (e.g., new or revised) physical layer information tothe storage device 3130. In accordance with other aspects, the processoris configured to delete physical layer information to the storage device3130. In still other implementations, the processor detects the presenceor absence of a connector 3110 in each passage 3215.

As shown in FIG. 102, dust caps 3250 can be mounted within the adapterpassages 3215 in which connectors 3110 are not received. The dust caps3250 can inhibit dust, dirt, or other contaminants from entering thepassages 3215 when the passages 3215 are not being utilized.

FIGS. 103-133 illustrate another example implementation of a connectorsystem 4000 that can be utilized on a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel) having PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality. One example connector assembly on which the connectorsystem 4000 can be implemented is a bladed chassis. The connector system4000 includes at least one example communications coupler assembly 4200and at least two connector arrangements 4100.

The communications coupler assembly 4200 is configured to be mounted toa connector assembly, such as a communications blade or a communicationspanel. One or more connector arrangements 4100, which terminate segments4010 of communications media, are configured to communicatively coupleto other segments of physical communications media at the couplerassembly 4200 (e.g., see FIGS. 116-117). Accordingly, communicationsdata signals carried by a media segment 4010 terminated by a firstconnector arrangement 4100 can be propagated to another media segment4010 (e.g., terminated by a second connector arrangement 4100) throughthe communications coupler assembly 4200.

In accordance with some aspects, each connector arrangement 4100 isconfigured to terminate a single segment of physical communicationsmedia. For example, each connector arrangement 4100 can include a singleconnector 4110 that terminates a single optical fiber or a singleelectrical conductor (FIG. 104). In one example implementation, eachconnector arrangement 4100 includes a single LC-type fiber opticconnector 4110 that terminates a single optical fiber. In accordancewith other aspects, each connector arrangement 4100 includes two or moreconnectors 4110, each of which terminates a single segment of physicalcommunications media. For example, each connector arrangement 4100 maydefine a duplex fiber optic connector arrangement including twoconnectors 4110, each of which terminates an optical fiber 4010 (FIG.104). In other implementations, the connector 4110 can be an SC-type, anST-type, an FC-type, an LX.5-type, etc.

In accordance with still other aspects, each connector arrangement 4100can include one or more connectors, each of which terminates a pluralityof physical media segments (e.g., see connector arrangement 2100, 2100′,and 5100 of FIGS. 31, 59, and 133). In one example implementation, eachconnector arrangement includes a single MPO-type fiber optic connectorthat terminates multiple optical fibers. In still other systems, othertypes of connector arrangements (e.g., electrical connectorarrangements) can be secured to the communications coupler assembly 4200or to a different type of coupler assembly.

In accordance with some aspects, each communications coupler assembly4200 is configured to form a single link between segments of physicalcommunications media 4010. For example, each communications couplerassembly 4200 can define a single passage at which a first connectorarrangement is coupled to a second connector arrangement. In accordancewith other aspects, however, each communications coupler assembly 4200is configured to form two or more links between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 103, thecommunications coupler assembly 4200 defines four passages 4215.

In some implementations, each passage 4215 of the communications couplerassembly 4200 is configured to form a single link between first andsecond connector arrangements 4100. In other example implementations,two or more passages 4215 can form a single link between connectorarrangements 4100 (e.g., two sets of ports can form a single linkbetween two duplex connector arrangements). In still other exampleimplementations, each communications coupler assembly 4200 can form aone-to-many link. For example, the communications coupler assembly 4200can connect a duplex connector arrangement to two simplex connectorarrangements.

Example implementations of connector arrangements 4100 are shown inFIGS. 104-111. Each of the connector arrangements 4100 includes one ormore fiber optic connectors 4110, each of which terminates one or moreoptical fibers 4010 (FIG. 103). In the example shown in FIGS. 103-105,each connector arrangement 4100 defines a duplex fiber optic connectorarrangement including two fiber optic connectors 4110 held togetherusing a clip 4150. In another example implementation, a connectorarrangement 4100 can define a simplex fiber optic connector 4110.

As shown in FIG. 105, each fiber optic connector 4110 includes aconnector body 4111 protecting a ferrule 4112 that retains an opticalfiber 4010. The connector body 4111 is secured to a boot 4113 forproviding bend protection to the optical fiber 4010. In the exampleshown, the connector 4110 is an LC-type fiber optic connector. Theconnector body 4111 includes a fastening member (e.g., clip arm) 4114that facilitates retaining the fiber optic connector 4110 within apassage 4215 in the communications coupler assembly 4200. The connectorbody 4111 also defines a through hole (or opposing depressions) 4117 tofacilitate maintaining the body 4111 within the clip 4150 (e.g., seeFIG. 105).

One example clip 4150 is shown in FIGS. 103 and 105. The clip 4150includes a body 4151 that defines openings or channels 4152 throughwhich portions 4119 of the fiber optic connector bodies 4111 can extend(see FIG. 105). In the example shown, the clip 4150 has a monolithicbody 4151 defining two channels 4152 separated by an interior wall 4156.Lugs 4157 are positioned on the inner surfaces of the exterior walls ofthe body 4151 and on both sides of the interior wall 4156. The lugs 4157are configured to engage cavities/depressions 4117 defined in the fiberoptic connector bodies 4111 to secure the connector bodies 4111 withinthe clip body 4151. A flange 4153 curves upwardly and forwardly toextend over the fastening members 4114 of the connectors 4110 (see FIG.104). The flange 4153 is sufficiently flexible to enable the applicationof pressure on the clip arms 4114 of the connectors 4110 by pressing ona distal end of the flange 4153.

Each connector arrangement 4100 is configured to store physical layerinformation. For example, a storage device 4130 may be installed on orin the body 4111 of one or more of the fiber optic connectors 4110 ofeach connector arrangement 4100. In the example shown, the storagedevice 4130 is installed on only one fiber optic connector 4110 of aduplex connector arrangement 4100 (FIG. 104). In other implementations,however, a storage device 4130 may be installed on each fiber opticconnector 4110 of a connector arrangement 4100.

One example storage device 4130 includes a printed circuit board 4131(FIG. 120A) on which memory circuitry can be arranged. Electricalcontacts 4132 also may be arranged on the printed circuit board 4131 forinteraction with a media reading interface of the communications couplerassembly 4200 (described in more detail herein). In one exampleimplementation, the storage device 4130 includes an EEPROM circuit 4133arranged on the printed circuit board 4131. In the example shown in FIG.105, an EEPROM circuit 4133 (FIG. 122) is arranged on the non-visibleside of the circuit board 4131. In other implementations, however, thestorage device 4130 can include any suitable type of non-volatilememory.

As shown in FIGS. 106-108, the body 4111 of one example fiber opticconnector 4110 may define a recessed section or cavity 4116 in which thestorage device 4130 may be positioned. In some implementations, thecavity 4116 is provided in the key 4115 of the connector 4110. In otherimplementations, the cavity 4116 may be provided elsewhere in theconnector 4110. In some implementations, the cavity 4116 has a steppedconfiguration 4160 to facilitate positioning of the storage device 4130.

In the example shown, the cavity 4116 includes a well 4162 surrounded bya ledge 4164. The ledge 4164 is configured to support the storage device4130. For example, the ledge 4164 may support the printed circuit board4131 of an example storage device 4130. The well 4162 is sufficientlydeep to accommodate an EEPROM circuit 4133 coupled to one side of theprinted circuit board 4131. The ledge 4164 is recessed sufficientlywithin the connector body 4111 to enable electrical contacts 4132provided on the opposite side of the printed circuit board 4131 to begenerally flush with the key 4115 of the connector body 4111 (see FIG.120).

In certain implementations, the ledge 4164 has a ridged or otherwisecontoured surface to facilitate mounting the storage device within thecavity 4116. For example, in some implementations, contoured sections4166 of the ledge 4164 may increase the surface area over which anadhesive may be applied to secure the storage device 4130 within thecavity 4116. In the example shown, the contoured sections 4166 includerectangular-shaped protrusions and/or depressions. In otherimplementations, however, the ledge 4164 may have bumps, ridges, or someother texture to increase the surface area over which adhesive isapplied.

FIGS. 109-111 show three example implementations of a storage device4130 installed on an example connector 4110. FIGS. 109 and 109A show afirst example connector 4110A that includes a key 4115 having a widthW8. The key 4115 has a front surface 4118 against which contacts 4231(see FIGS. 119-122) of the communications coupler assembly 4200 deflectduring insertion of the connector 4110 as will be described in moredetail herein. In the example shown, the deflection surface 4118 definesa bullnose. In other implementations, the deflection surface 4118 maydefine any suitable shape.

The key 4115 also defines a recessed section or cavity 4116A in which astorage device 4130A can be positioned (e.g., see FIG. 108). In theexample shown in FIG. 109A, the cavity 4116A is defined in a top of thekey 4115 and not on or in the deflecting surface 4118. In someimplementations, a cover can be positioned over the storage device 4130Ato enclose the storage device 4130A within the recessed section 4116A ofthe connector 4111. In other implementations, the storage device 4130Ais left uncovered and exposed.

The storage device 4130A shown in FIG. 109A includes generally planarcontacts 4132A positioned on a generally planar circuit board 4131A.Memory 4133 (FIGS. 116-117) of the storage device 4130A, which islocated on the non-visible side of the board in FIG. 109A, is accessedby engaging the tops of the contacts 4132A with one or more electricallyconductive contact members (e.g., contact member 4231 of FIG. 119). Incertain implementations, the contact member 4231 initially contacts thedeflecting surface 4118 and subsequently slides or wipes across thecontacts 4132A (see FIGS. 119-122).

In some implementations, the contacts 4132A have different lengths. Incertain implementations, the contacts 4132A have different shapes. Forexample, in some implementation, the contacts 4132A include one or morecontact members 4132A′ that have generally rounded ends at one or bothends of the contact members 4132A′. In certain implementations, thecontacts 4132A also include one or more contact members 4132A″ that aregenerally L-shaped. In the example shown, the L-shaped contacts 4132A″are longer than the rounded end contacts 4132A′. In otherimplementations, however, the contacts 4132A may have the same length ormay each have different lengths.

FIGS. 110 and 110A show a second example connector 4110B that includes akey 4115 having a deflection surface 4118. The key 4115 defines arecessed section or cavity 4116B in which a storage device 4130B can bepositioned. In the example shown, the cavity 4116B cuts into thedeflecting surface 4118 of the key 4115. In some implementations, acover can be positioned over the storage device 4130B to enclose thestorage device 4130B within the connector 4111. In otherimplementations, the storage device 4130B is left uncovered and exposed.

The storage device 4130B shown in FIG. 110A includes contacts 4132Bhaving first sections 4135B that extend over a generally planar circuitboard 4131B and folded sections 4134B that curve, fold, or bend over afront end 4136B of the board 4131B. In the example shown, the firstsections 4135B of the contacts 4132B have two different lengths. Inother implementations, however, the first sections 4135B of the contacts4132B may all be the same length or may each be a different length. Incertain implementations, at least some of the first sections 4135B maybe L-shaped and at least some of the first sections 4135B may have arounded edge. The memory 4133 of the storage device 4130B, which islocated on the non-visible side of the board in FIG. 110A, is accessedby sliding or wiping the contact member 4231 (FIG. 119) of the couplerassembly 4200 across the folded sections 4134B of the contacts 4132Band/or the planar sections 4135B of the contacts 4132B.

FIGS. 111 and 111A show a third example connector 4110C that includes akey 4115 having a deflection wall 4118. The key 4115 defines a recessedsection or cavity 4116C in which a storage device 4130C can bepositioned. In the example shown, the cavity 4116C cuts into thedeflection wall 4118 of the key 4115. In some implementations, a covercan be positioned over the storage device 4130C to enclose the storagedevice 4130C within the connector 4111. In other implementations, thestorage device 4130C is left uncovered and exposed.

The storage device 4130C shown in FIG. 111A includes contacts 4132Chaving first sections 4135C that extend over a generally planar circuitboard 4131C and contoured sections 4134C that curve, fold, or bend overa contoured section 4136C at the front of the board 4131C. In theexample shown, the first sections 4135C of the contacts 4132C have twodifferent lengths. In other implementations, however, the first sections4135C of the contacts 4132C may all be the same length or may each be adifferent length. In certain implementations, one or more of the firstsections 4135C may be L-shaped and one or more of the first sections4135C may have a rounded edge. The memory 4133 of the storage device4130C, which is located on the non-visible side of the board in FIG.111A, is accessed by sliding or wiping the contact member 4231 (FIG.119) of the coupler assembly 4200 across the contoured section 4134C ofthe contacts 4132C.

FIGS. 112-117 show one example implementation of a communicationscoupler assembly 4200 implemented as a fiber optic adapter. The examplecommunications coupler assembly 4200 includes an adapter housing 4210defining one or more passages 4215 configured to align and interface twoor more fiber optic connectors 4110 (e.g., see FIG. 103). In otherexample implementations, however, one or more passages 4215 can beconfigured to communicatively couple together a fiber optic connector4110 with a media converter (not shown) to convert the optical datasignals into electrical data signals, wireless data signals, or othersuch data signals. In other implementations, however, the communicationscoupler assembly 4200 can include an electrical termination block thatis configured to receive punch-down wires, electrical plugs (e.g., forelectrical jacks), or other types of electrical connectors.

The example adapter housing 4210 shown in FIGS. 112-117 is formed fromopposing sides 4211 interconnected by first and second ends 4212. Thesides 4211 and ends 4212 each extend between a front and a rear. Theadapter housing 4210 defines one or more passages 4215 extending betweenthe front and rear ends. Each end of each passage 4215 is configured toreceive a connector arrangement or portion thereof (e.g., one fiberoptic connector 4110 of duplex connector arrangement 4100 of FIG. 103).In the example shown, the adapter housing 4210 defines four passages4215. In other implementations, however, the adapter housing 4210 maydefine one, two, three, six, eight, ten, twelve, sixteen, or even moreports. Sleeves (e.g., split sleeves) 4206 are positioned within thepassages 4215 to receive and align the ferrules 4112 of fiber opticconnectors 4110 (see FIG. 117).

In the example shown, the body 4210 of the fiber optic adapter 4200defines four passages 4215. In other implementations, the body 4210 candefine greater or fewer passages 4215. For example, in some exampleimplementations, the body 4210 of the fiber optic adapter 4200 candefine a single passage 4215 that is configured to optically coupletogether two fiber optic connectors 4110. In other exampleimplementations, the fiber optic adapter 4200 can define two, eight, ortwelve passages 4215 that are each configured to optically coupletogether two fiber optic connectors 4110. In certain implementations,the adapter housing 4210 also defines latch engagement channel 4217(FIG. 112) at each port to facilitate retention of the latch arms 4114of the fiber optic connectors 4110. Each latch engagement channel 4217is sized and shaped to receive the key 4115 of the connector 4110.

The fiber optic adapter 4210 includes one or more media readinginterfaces 4230, each configured to acquire the physical layerinformation from the storage device 4130 of a fiber optic connector 4110plugged into the fiber optic adapter 4210. For example, in oneimplementation, the adapter 4210 can include a media reading interface4230 associated with each passage 4215. In another implementation, theadapter 4210 can include a media reading interface 4230 associated witheach connection end of each passage 4215. In still otherimplementations, the adapter 4210 can include a media reading interface4230 associated with each of a set of passages 4215 that accommodate aconnector arrangement 4100.

For example, the quadruplex adapter 4210 shown in FIG. 114 includes amedia reading interface 4230A at the front connection end of twopassages 4215 to interface with two duplex fiber optic connectorarrangements 4100 received thereat and two media reading interfaces4230B at the rear connection end of two passages 4215 to interface withtwo duplex fiber optic connector arrangements 4100 received thereat. Inanother implementation, one side of the adapter housing 4210 can includetwo media reading interfaces 4230 to interface with two duplex fiberoptic connector arrangements 4100 and another side of the adapterhousing 4210 can include four media reading interfaces to interface withfour separate fiber optic connectors 4110. In other implementations, theadapter housing 4210 can include any desired combination of front andrear media reading interfaces 4230.

In general, each media reading interface 4230 is formed from one or morecontact members 4231 (see FIG. 119). In certain implementations, a topsurface of the coupler housing 4210 defines slots 4214 configured toreceive one or more contact members 4231. When a connector 4110 with astorage device 4130 is inserted into one of the passages 4215 of thecoupler housing 4210, the contact pads 4132 of the storage device 4130are configured to align with the slots 4214 defined in the adapterhousing 4210. Accordingly, the contact members 4231 held within theslots 4214 align with the contact pads 4132.

At least a portion of each slot 4214 extends through the top surface tothe passage 4215. In some implementations, the material height of thetop surface is at least 0.76 mm (0.03 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the material height of the top surface is at least 1.02mm (0.04 inches). In certain implementations, the material height of thetop surface is at least 1.27 mm (0.05 inches).

In some implementations, the media reading interface 4230 includesmultiple contact members 4231. For example, in certain implementations,the media reading interface 4230 includes at least a first contactmember 4231 that transfers power, at least a second contact member 4231that transfers data, and at least a third contact member 4231 thatprovides grounding. In one implementation, the media reading interface4230 includes a fourth contact member. In other implementations, themedia reading interface 4230 include greater or fewer contact members4231.

In some implementations, each contact member 4231 is retained within aseparate slot 4214. For example, in the implementation shown in FIGS.112-118, each media reading interface 4230 includes four contact members4231 that are held in a set 4213 (FIG. 115) of four slots 4214 thatalign with four contact pads 4132 on a connector storage device 4130.The slots 4214 in each set 4213 are separated by intermediate walls 4216(FIGS. 115 and 117). In other implementations, all of the contactmembers 4231 in a single media reading interface 4230 may be retained ina single slot 3214.

In some implementations, the adapter housing 4210 has more sets 4213 ofslots 4214 than media reading interfaces 4230. For example, in someimplementations, each adapter housing 4210 defines a set 4213 of slots4214 at each connection end of each passage 4215. In otherimplementations, however, the adapter housing 4210 may have the samenumber of slot sets 4213 and media reading interfaces 4231. For example,in certain implementations, each adapter housing 4210 may defines a set4213 of slots 4214 at only one connection end of each passage 4215. Inother implementations, the adapter housing 4210 may define a set 4213 ofslots 4214 at each connection end of alternate passages 4215.

In some implementations, the contact members 4231 of a single mediareading interface 4230 are positioned in a staggered configuration. Insome implementations, the slots 4214 accommodating the staggered contactmembers 4231 also are staggered. For example, as shown in FIGS. 114-115,alternating slots 4214 can be staggered in a front to rear direction. Inother implementations, however, the slots 4214 accommodating thestaggered contacts 4231 may each have a common length that is longerthan a length of the staggered arrangement of contact members 4231. Instill other implementations, the front and rear ends of the contactmembers 4231 of a single media reading interface 4230 are transverselyaligned within similarly transversely aligned slots 4214.

In the example shown in FIGS. 114-115, the slots 4214 defined at frontconnection ends of the adapter passages 4215 axially align with slots4214 defined at the rear connection ends. In other implementations,however, the slots 4214 at the front connection ends may be staggeredfrom the slots 4214 at the rear connection ends. As shown in FIGS. 116and 117, at least one support wall 4205 separates the forward slots 4214from the rearward slots 4214. Each support wall 4205 extends from theslotted top surface 4212 of the adapter housing 4210 to at least thesplit sleeve 4206.

In some implementations, a single support wall 4205 extends along acenter of the adapter housing 4210 transverse to the insertion axisA_(I) (FIG. 112) of the passages 4215. For example, a single supportwall 4205 may extend through an adapter housing 4210 that definestransversely aligned slots 4214. In other implementations, one or moresupport walls 4205 may extend between slots 4214 arranged in a staggeredconfiguration. In the example shown, adjacent support walls 4205 areoffset from each other along an insertion axis of the passages 4215 toaccommodate the staggered slots 4214 arrangements. In certainimplementations, the support walls 4205 may connect to or be continuouswith the intermediate walls 4216.

As shown in FIG. 115, each set 4213 of slots 4214 accommodating onemedia reading interface 4230 has a width W5 and each slot 4214 has awidth W6. Intermediate walls 4216, which separate the slots 4214 of eachset 4213, each have a width W7. In general, the width W5 of each set4213 of slots 4214 is smaller than the width W8 (FIG. 107) of the key4115 of the connector 4110 positioned in the respective adapter passage4215. In some implementations, the width W5 of each set 4213 of slots4214 is less than 3.35 mm (0.13 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the width W5 of each set 4213 of slots 4214 is lessthan about 3.1 mm (0.12 inches). In certain implementations, the widthW5 of each set 4213 of slots 4214 is no more than about 2.5 mm (0.10inches). In one example implementation, the width W5 of each set 4213 ofslots 4214 is no more than 2.2 mm (0.09 inches). In one exampleimplementation, the width W5 of each set 4213 of slots 4214 is about 2mm (0.08 inches). In one example implementation, the width W5 of eachset 4213 of slots 4214 is about 2.1 mm (0.081 inches).

In certain implementations, the width W7 of the intermediate walls 4216is smaller than the width W6 of the slots 4214. In some implementations,the width W6 of each slot 4214 is within the range of about 0.25 mm(0.010 inches) to about 0.64 mm (0.025 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the width W6 of each slot 4214 is within the range ofabout 0.25 mm (0.010 inches) to about 0.48 mm (0.019 inches). In oneimplementation, the width W6 of each slot 4214 is about 0.43-0.44 mm(0.017 inches). In one implementation, the width W6 of each slot 4214 isabout 0.41-0.42 mm (0.016 inches). In one implementation, the width W6of each slot 4214 is about 0.45-0.46 mm (0.018 inches). In oneimplementation, the width W6 of each slot 4214 is about 0.3 mm (0.012inches). In one implementation, the width W6 of each slot 4214 is about0.28 mm (0.011 inches). In one implementation, the width W6 of each slot4214 is about 0.33 mm (0.013 inches).

In some implementations, the width W7 of each intermediate wall 4216 iswithin the range of about 0.13 mm (0.005) inches to about 0.38 mm (0.015inches). In one implementation, the width W7 of each intermediate wall4216 is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches). In one implementation, the widthW7 of each intermediate wall 4216 is about 0.28 mm (0.011 inches). Inone implementation, the width W7 of each intermediate wall 4216 is about0.28 mm (0.011 inches). In one implementation, the width W7 of eachintermediate wall 4216 is about 0.33 mm (0.013 inches). In oneimplementation, the width W7 of each intermediate wall 4216 is about0.25 mm (0.010 inches). In certain implementations, the width W7 of eachintermediate wall 4216 is within the range of about 0.13 mm (0.005)inches to about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches). In one implementation, the widthW7 of each intermediate wall 4216 is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches).

As shown in FIG. 118, a printed circuit board 4220 is configured tosecure (e.g., via fasteners 4222) to the adapter housing 4210. In someimplementations, the example adapter housing 4210 includes two annularwalls 4218 in which the fasteners 4222 can be inserted to hold theprinted circuit board 4220 to the adapter housing 4210. Non-limitingexamples of suitable fasteners 4222 include screws, snaps, and rivets.For ease in understanding, only a portion of the printed circuit board4220 is shown in FIG. 118. It is to be understood that the printedcircuit board 4220 electrically connects to a data processor and/or to anetwork interface (e.g., the processor 217 and network interface 216 ofFIG. 2). It is further to be understood that multiple communicationscoupler housings 4210 can be connected to the printed circuit board 4220within a connector assembly (e.g., a communications panel).

The contact members 4231 extend between the slotted surface of theadapter housing 4210 and the passages 4215. Portions of each contactmember 4231 engage contacts and tracings on the printed circuit board4220 mounted to the slotted surface of the adapter housing 4210. Otherportions of the contact members 4231 engage the electrical contacts 4132of the storage members 4130 attached to any connector arrangements 4100positioned in the passages 4215 (see FIG. 123). A processor coupled tothe circuit board 4220 can access the memory 4133 of each connectorarrangement 4100 through corresponding ones of the contact members 4231,4131.

In some implementations, each media reading interface 4230 of the fiberoptic adapter 4200 includes four contact members 4231 (see FIG. 112) andeach storage device 4130 of the fiber optic connector 4110 includes fourcontact pads 4132 (see FIGS. 104-111). In the example shown in FIGS.120-123, two contact members 4231 are visibly positioned within a slot4214 defined in a fiber optic adapter 4210, shown in cross-section. Twoadditional contact members 4231 also are positioned in the slot 4214,but cannot be seen since the additional contact members 4231 laterallyalign with the visible contact members 4231. In other implementations,however, greater or fewer contact members 4231 may be positioned withinthe housing.

In accordance with some aspects, the media reading interfaces 4230 ofthe adapter are configured to detect when a connector arrangement isinserted into one or more passages 4215. The contact members 4231 canfunction as presence detection sensors or trigger switches. In someimplementations, the contact members 4231 of a media reading interface4230 are configured to form a complete circuit with the circuit board4220 only when a connector 4110 is inserted within a respective passage4215. For example, at least a portion of each contact member 4231 may beconfigured to contact the circuit board 4220 only after being pushedtoward the circuit board 4220 by a connector 4210. In other exampleimplementations, portions of the contact members 4231 can be configuredto complete a circuit until pushed away from the circuit board 4220 or ashorting rod by a connector 4110. In accordance with other aspects,however, some implementations of the contact members 4231 may beconfigured to form a complete circuit with the circuit board 4220regardless of whether a connector 4110 is received in a passage 4215.

One example type of contact member 4231 is shown in FIG. 119. Eachcontact member 4231 includes at least three moveable (e.g., flexible)contact sections 4233, 4235, and 4236 defining contact surfaces. Theflexibility of the contact sections 4233, 4235, and 4236 providestolerance for differences in spacing between the contact member 4231 andthe respective printed circuit board 4220 when the coupler assembly 4200is manufactured. Certain types of contact members 4231 also include atleast one stationary contact 4237 having a contact surface of thecontact member 4231.

The first moveable contact section 4233 is configured to extend throughthe slot 4214 and engage the circuit board 4220. The first stationarycontact 4237 also is configured to extend through the slot 4214 toengage the circuit board 4220. The ability of the first contact section4233 to flex relative to the stationary contact 4237 provides tolerancefor placement of the contact member 4231 relative to the circuit board4220. The second moveable contact section 4235 is configured to extendinto the passage 4215 and engage the connector 4110 positioned in thepassage 4215. If a storage device 4130 is installed on the connector4110, then the second contact surface 4235 is configured to engage thecontact pads 4132 of the storage device 4130.

The third moveable contact surface 4236 is configured to selectivelyextend through the slot 4214 and engage the circuit board 4220. Forexample, the third contact surface 4236 may be configured to engage thecircuit board 4220 when a connector 4110 is inserted into a passage 4215corresponding with the contact member 4231. The example contact member4231 also includes a resilient section 4234 that biases the thirdcontact surface 4236 upwardly through the slot 4214 (e.g., toward thecircuit board 4220). In some implementations, the resilient section 4234defines at least a partial arc. For example, in the implementation shownin FIG. 119, the resilient section 4234 defines a partial circle. Inother implementations, the resilient section 4234 may define a series ofcurves, folds, and/or bends.

The example contact member 4231 is configured to seat in one of theslots 4214 of the adapter housing 4210. For example, the contact member4231 includes a base 4232 that is configured to abut the support wall4205 of the adapter housing 4210 (see FIGS. 120-123). In oneimplementation, the side of the base 4232 that abuts the support wall4205 is flat. In another implementation, the side of the base 4232 thatabuts the support wall 4205 defines one or more notches. One end 4237 ofthe base 4232 defines a stationary contact 4237 that is configured toextend through the slot 4214 and contact the circuit board 4220.

Another end of the base 4232 defines an attachment section 4238 thatengages a portion of the support wall 4205 to secure the contact member4231 within the slot 4214. In some implementations, the attachmentsection 4238 of the contact member 4231 includes a first leg 4241 and asecond leg 4243 extending from the base 4232 (FIG. 96). In oneimplementation, the first leg 4241 defines a bump 4242. In oneimplementation, the attachment section 4238 is configured to snap-fitinto the support wall 4205. In other implementations, the attachmentsection 4238 may otherwise mount to the support wall 4205.

The example contact member 4231 also includes a third leg 4244 thatextends outwardly from the base 4232 generally parallel with the secondleg 4243. A distal end of the third leg 4244 bends or curves upwardlytoward the circuit board 4220. In the example shown, the third leg 4244is generally J-shaped. In other implementations, the third leg 4244 maybe L-shaped, C-shaped, V-shaped, etc. The first contact surface 4233 isdefined at the distal end of the third leg 4244. In the example shown,the distal end of the third leg 4244 defines an arched or ball-shapedfirst contact surface 4233. In one implementation, the first contactsection 4233 and/or the stationary contact 4237 may provide groundingfor the contact member 4231 through the circuit board 4220.

The contact member 4231 also includes a fourth leg 4245 that extendsoutwardly from the base 4232. In the example shown, the fourth leg 4245extends outwardly between the second and third legs 4243, 4244 andgenerally parallel to the second and third legs 4243, 4244. The fourthleg 4245 separates into first arm 4246, which defines the third contactsurface 4236, and a second arm 4247, which defines the second contactsurface 4235. The first arm 4246 extends upwardly from the fourth leg4245 towards the circuit board 4220. For example, in someimplementations, the first arm 4246 arcs upwardly into a planarextension that terminates at the third contact surface 4236. In theexample shown, the third contact surface 4236 defines an arched orball-shaped distal end of the first arm 4246.

The second arm 4247 initially extends away from the fourth leg 4245 andsubsequently extends back towards the base 4232 to increase the beamlength of the contact 4231. For example, in some implementations, thesecond arm 4247 extends downwardly to define the resilient section 4234and upwardly into a bend section 4239. From the bend section 4239, thesecond arm 4247 changes direction (i.e., curves, bends, folds, arcs,angles, etc.) downwardly and back toward the base 4232 along anelongated section 4248, which may be straight or contoured. In theexample shown, the elongated section 4248 defines a bend about part-waythrough.

A tail 4249 extends from the elongated section 4248 toward the base4230. In the example shown, the tail 4249 curves downwardly to definethe second contact surface 4235 before curving upwardly towards the base4232. As shown in FIGS. 120-123, at least a portion of the elongatedsection 4248 and the tail 4249 extend completely through the slots 4214and into the socket 4215. At least a distal end of the tail 4249 of eachcontact member 4231 extends out of the socket 4215 and back into therespective slot 4214. Accordingly, the tail 4249 is inhibited fromtouching the adjacent contact members 4231.

At least the tail 4249 of the contact member 4231 is configured todeflect or flex when the front surface 4118 of the key 4115 of aconnector 4110 pushes against a portion of the second arm 4247 of thecontact member 4231 when a connector 4110 is inserted into the socket4215. In the example shown, the tail 4249 and the elongated portion 4248flex when deflected by the key 4115. For example, the elongated portion4248 and tail 4249 flex when the deflecting surface 4118 pushes againstan outer surface of the elongated section 4248. In some implementations,the tail 4249 defines the second contact surface 4235. In otherimplementations, an outer surface of the elongated section 4248 definesthe second contact surface 4235. In still other implementations, theelongated section 4248 and the tail 4249 cooperate to define the secondcontact section 4235.

The resilient section 4234 is configured to transfer the force appliedto a second arm 4247 of the contact member 4231 to the first arm 4246.For example, in some implementations, the resilient section 4234 isconfigured to lift the first arm 4246 to swipe the third contact surface4236 against the printed circuit board 4220 (see FIGS. 122, 122A, and123). In certain implementations, the inner side of the elongatedsection 4248 is configured to abut against the resilient section 4234when a connector 4110 is positioned in the passage 4215 to aid intransferring the force to the first arm 4246.

In some implementations, the body of the contact member 4231 extendsbetween a first and second end. In the example shown in FIG. 119, thebase 4232 is located at the first end and the third contact section 4236is located at the second end. The contact member 4231 also extendsbetween a top and a bottom. In some implementations, the contactsurfaces of the first and third contact sections 4233, 4236 face the topof the contact member 4231 and the contact surface of the second contactsection 4235 faces the bottom of the contact member 4231. In the exampleshown, the first and third contact sections 4233, 4236 extend at leastpartially towards the top of the contact member 4231 and the secondcontact section 4235 extends towards the bottom of the contact member4231. As used herein, the terms “top” and “bottom” are not meant toimply a proper orientation of the contact member 4231 or that the top ofthe contact member 4231 must be located above the bottom of the contactmember 4231. Rather, the terms are used for ease in understanding andare assigned relative to the viewing plane of FIG. 119.

The contact member 4231 defines a body having a circumferential edge4240 (FIG. 123D) extending between planar major sides (FIG. 119). Incertain implementations, the edge 4240 defines the contact surface ofeach contact section 4233, 4235, 4236, 4237 (see FIG. 122). In someimplementations, the edge 4240 has a substantially continuous thicknessT (FIG. 123D). In various implementations, the thickness T ranges fromabout 0.05 inches to about 0.005 inches. In certain implementations, thethickness T is less than about 0.02 inches. In some implementation, thethickness T is less than about 0.012 inches. In another implementation,the thickness T is about 0.01 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T is about 0.009 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T is about 0.008 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T is about 0.007 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T is about 0.006 inches. In other implementations, thethickness T may vary across the body of the contact member 4231.

Portions of the planar surfaces of the contact member 4231 may increaseand/or decrease in width. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 119,the base 4232 is wider than each of the arms 4243, 4244, 4245. The bendsection 4239 is wider than the resilient section 4234. In certainimplementations, each of the contact surfaces of the contact sections4233, 4235, 4236 are rounded or otherwise contoured. For example, inFIG. 119, the first and third contact sections 4233, 4236 define bulboustips and the second contact section 4235 defines an arced sectionextending from a linear section of the contact member 4231 (see FIG.119).

In one implementation, the contact member 4231 is formed monolithically(e.g., from a continuous sheet of metal or other material). For example,in some implementations, the contact member 4231 may be manufactured bycutting a planar sheet of metal or other material. In otherimplementations, the contact member 4231 may be manufactured by etchinga planar sheet of metal or other material. In other implementations, thecontact member 4231 may be manufactured by laser trimming a planar sheetof metal or other material. In still other implementations, the contactmember 4231 may be manufactured by stamping a planar sheet of metal orother material.

FIGS. 120-123 illustrate one example contact member 4231 positioned in aslot 4214 of an adapter 4210 before and after insertion of a connector4110 in a passage 4215 of the adapter 4210. In the example shown, thefirst leg 4241 of the attachment section 4238 extends generallyvertically and the second leg 4243 extends generally horizontally (e.g.,see FIGS. 120A, 121A, and 122). In some implementations, the supportwall 4205 of the adapter housing 4210 defines a recess or channel 4208and an extension 4207 (FIG. 120A). When the attachment section 4238 ismounted to the support wall 4205, the first leg 4241 of the attachmentsection 4238 fits in the recess 4208 and the second leg 4242 seats onthe extension 4207. The first contact surface 4233 extends through theslot 4214 and contacts the circuit board 3220.

In some implementations, a support portion 4209 (FIGS. 120A, 121A, and122) of the adapter housing 4210 projects partially into the passages4215 opposite the support wall 4205. The support portion 4209 defines aledge 4219 recessed within each slot 4214. The distal end of the firstarm 4246 seats on the ledge 4219 spaced from the circuit board 4220 whena connector 4110 is not positioned within a respective passage 4215 (seeFIGS. 120, 120A). Inserting a connector 4110 into the passage 4215biases the distal end of the first arm 4246 upwardly from the ledge 4219toward the circuit board 4220 (see FIGS. 121, 121A, 122). In certainimplementations, biasing the distal end of the first arm 4246 upwardlycauses the third contact surface 4236 to engage (e.g., touch or slideagainst) the circuit board 4220.

The tail 4249 of the contact member 4231 extends into the passage 4215associated with the slot 4214. Inserting the connector 4110 into thepassage 4215 causes the deflection surface 4118 of the key 4115 of aconnector 4110 to press against the outer surface of the elongatedsection 4248 (see FIGS. 120 and 120A). The deflection surface 4118deflects the elongated section 4248 and the tail 4249 upwardly andtoward the support wall 4205. In certain implementations, the innersurface of the elongated portion 4248 abuts against and applies anupwardly directed pressure to the resilient section 4234 of the contactmember 3231. The resilient section 4234 biases the distal end of thefirst arm 4246 of the contact member 4231 through the slot 4214 to slideor wipe across the circuit board 4220 (see FIGS. 121, 122, and 123).Accordingly, the presence of the connector 4110 in the passage 4215 maybe detected when the deflection surface 4118 of the connector key 4115engages the contact member 4231.

In some implementations, the connector 4110 does not include a storagedevice 4130. For example, the connector 4110 may be part of a duplexconnector arrangement 4100 in which the other connector 4110 holds thestorage device 4130. In other implementations, the connector 4110 may bean existing connector that does not store physical layer information. Inother implementations, however, the connector 4110 may include a storagedevice 4130. In such implementations, the second contact surface 4235 ofthe contact member 4231 slides or wipes across the surface of thecontacts 4132 of the storage device 4130 during insertion of theconnector (see FIGS. 121, 121A, 122).

In some implementations, the storage device 4130 is stored in a cavitydefined only in a top of the key 4115 (e.g., see FIG. 107). In suchimplementations, the second contact surface 4235 of the connector 4130is defined by a leading edge or bottom-most portion of the tail 4249,which slides across the contacts 4132 of the storage device 4130 afterthe tail 4249 is raised by the deflection surface 4118 of the key 4115.Accordingly, the presence of the connector 4110 within the passage 4215may be detected before the memory 4133 of the storage device 4130 can beaccessed.

In other implementations, the storage device 4130 is accessible througha recess in the deflection surface 4118 (e.g., see FIGS. 109 and 111).In such implementations, the second contact surface 4235 of theconnector 4130 is defined by the outer edge of the elongated section4248, which touches the storage device contacts 4132 as the elongatedsection 4248 is being deflected by the deflection surface 4118.Accordingly, the presence of the connector 4110 within the passage 4215may be detected at approximately the same time that the memory 4133 ofthe storage device 4130 can be accessed.

As discussed above, a processor (e.g., processor 217 of FIG. 2) or othersuch equipment also can be electrically coupled to the printed circuitboard 4220. Accordingly, the processor can communicate with the memorycircuitry 4133 on the storage device 4130 via the contact members 4231and the printed circuit board 4220. In accordance with some aspects, theprocessor is configured to obtain physical layer information from thestorage device 4130. In accordance with other aspects, the processor isconfigured to write (e.g., new or revised) physical layer information tothe storage device 4130. In accordance with other aspects, the processoris configured to delete physical layer information to the storage device4130. In still other implementations, the processor detects the presenceor absence of a connector 4110 in each passage 4215.

Removing the connector 4110 from the passage 4215 releases the secondarm 4247 from the upwardly biased position (see FIG. 121), therebyallowing the elongated portion 4248 and tail 4249 to move back to theunbiased position (see FIG. 120). When in the unbiased position, anupward pressure is no longer applied to the resilient section 4234.Accordingly, the resilient section 4234 allows the distal end of thefirst arm 4246 to drop into the slot 4214 and rest against the ledge4219 (see FIG. 120). Dropping the first arm 4246 disengages the thirdcontact surface 4236 from the circuit board 4220, thereby interruptingthe circuit created by the contact member 4231. Interrupting the circuitenables a processor connected to the circuit board 4220 to determinethat the connector 4110 has been removed from the passage 4215.

FIGS. 123A-123D shows one example implementation of the circuit board4220 described above. The same or similar circuit boards 4220 aresuitable for use in any of the coupler assemblies described herein. Insome implementations, the circuit board 4220 defines fastener receivingopenings 4227 through which fasteners 4222 may be inserted to secure thecircuit board 4220 (see FIG. 118).

The example circuit board 4220 includes a plurality of first contactpads 4223 and a plurality of second contact pads 4224 spaced from thefirst contact pads 4223. In certain implementations, the first contactpads 4223 are laterally aligned with each other and the second contactpads 4224 are laterally aligned with each other. In otherimplementations, however, the first contact pads 4223 may be laterallyoffset or staggered from each other and/or the second contact pads 4224may be laterally offset of staggered from each other. In certainimplementations, each of the first contact pads 4223 is longitudinallyaligned with one of the second contact pads 4224 to form a landing pair.In other implementations, however, the first and second contact pads4223, 4224 may be longitudinally offset from each other.

A media reading interface (e.g., media reading interface 4230) may beseated on the printed circuit board 4220. In the example shown, thefirst moveable contact surface 4233 of each contact member 4231 of themedia reading interface 4230 touches one of the first contact pads 4223.In certain implementations, the stationary contacts 4237 also touch thefirst contact pads 4223. The third moveable contact surface 4239 of eachcontact member 4231 is configured to selectively touch the secondcontact pad 4224 that forms a landing pair with the second contact pad4223.

FIGS. 124-152 illustrate a fifth example implementation of a connectorsystem 5000 that can be utilized on a connector assembly having PLIfunctionality as well as PLM functionality. The example connector system5000 includes at least one communications coupler assembly 5200positioned between two printed circuit boards 5220. One or more exampleconnector arrangements 5100 (FIGS. 133-134), which terminate segments5010 of communications media, are configured to communicatively coupleto other segments of physical communications media at the couplerassemblies 5200. Accordingly, communications data signals carried by themedia segments 5010 terminated by the connector arrangements 5100 can betransmitted to other media segments.

The coupler assembly 5200 includes one or more coupler housings 5210. Atleast one coupler housing 5210 is sandwiched between a first circuitboard 5220A and a second circuit board 5220B (e.g., via fasteners 5222A,5222B). In some implementations, multiple (e.g., two, three, four,eight, twelve, sixteen, twenty, etc.) coupler housings 5210 may besandwiched between two circuit boards (e.g., see FIGS. 23 and 24 above).In some implementations, the first circuit board 5220A can beelectrically coupled to the second circuit board 5220B via a fixedconnector (e.g., a card edge connector). In other implementations, thefirst circuit board 5220A can be electrically coupled to the secondcircuit board 5220B via a flexible or ribbon cable arrangement. In stillother implementations, the circuit boards 5220A, 5220B areinterconnected using other suitable circuit board connection techniques.

For ease in understanding, only portions of the example printed circuitboards 5220A, 5220B of the connector system 5000 are shown in FIG. 124.It is to be understood that the printed circuit boards 5220A, 5220Belectrically connect to a data processor and/or to a network interface(e.g., processor 217 and network interface 216 of FIG. 2) as part of aconnector assembly 5200. As noted above, non-limiting examples of suchconnector assemblies 5200 include bladed chassis and drawer chassis.Furthermore, additional coupler housings 5210 can be connected todifferent portions of the printed circuit boards 5220A, 5220B or atother locations within an example connector assembly.

One example coupler housing 5210 is shown in FIGS. 125-132. The examplecoupler housing 5210 defines a single passage 5215 extending betweenopposite open ends (e.g., a front and rear of the coupler housing 5210).In other example implementations, however, each coupler housing 5210 caninclude a greater number (e.g., two, three, four, six, eight, twelve,etc.) of passages 5215. Each open end of each passage 5215 is configuredto receive a segment of communications media (e.g., a connectorized endof an optical fiber 5010). In some implementations, flexible latchingtabs 5219 are located at the entrances of the passages 5215 to aid inretaining connector arrangements 5100 within the passages 5215. In theexample shown, each latching tab 5219 defines a ramped surface andlatching surface.

In the example shown, each coupler housing 5210 is implemented as afiber optic adapter configured to receive Multi-fiber Push-On (MPO)connectors. Each passage 5215 of the MPO adapters 5210 is configured toalign and connect two MPO connector arrangements 5100 (see FIGS.145-147). In other implementations, each passage 5215 can be configuredto connect other types of physical media segments. For example, one ormore passages 5215 of the MPO adapters 5200 can be configured tocommunicatively couple together an MPO connector arrangement 5100 with amedia converter (not shown) to convert the optical data signals intoelectrical data signals, wireless data signals, or other type of datasignals.

In the example shown in FIGS. 125-132, each adapter 5210 is formed fromopposing sides 5211 interconnected by first and second ends 5212. Thesides 5211 and ends 5212 each extend between an open front and an openrear to define the passage 5215. In some implementations, the sides 5211and ends 5212 define a generally rectangular box. In certainimplementations, a port entrance 5213 extends from the front and rear ofthe adapter 5210. In certain implementation, the port entrance 5213 isoblong-shaped. In the example shown, the entrance 5213 is obround-shapedhaving planar top and bottom surfaces and rounded side surfaces.

The adapter 5210 also includes mounting stations 5217 at which fasteners5222 (FIG. 124) can be received to secure the adapter 5210 to one ormore printed circuit boards 5220. In certain implementations, thefasteners 5222 pass through mounting openings 5227 defined by theprinted circuit board 5220 (FIGS. 149-150). Non-limiting examples ofsuitable fasteners 5222 include screws, snaps, and rivets. For example,the mounting stations 5217 can aid in securing the adapter 5210 to theupper circuit board 5220A and the lower circuit board 5220B (see FIG.124). In other implementations, the mounting stations 5217 can includelatches, panel guides, or other panel mounting arrangements.

In some implementations, the adapter 5210 also includes alignment lugs5216 that facilitate mounting the adapter 5210 to the circuit boards5220 in the correct orientation. For example, the alignment lugs 5216may align with openings 5226 (FIGS. 149-150) defined in the circuitboards 5220 (e.g., see FIG. 124). Accordingly, the alignment lugs 5216inhibit mounting of the adapter 5210 backwards on one or both of thecircuit boards 5220. In the example shown, two alignment lugs 5216extend from a first end 5212 of the adapter 5210 at the front of theadapter 5210 and two alignment lugs 5216 extend from a second end 5212of the adapter 5210 at the rear of the adapter 5210. In otherimplementations, however, greater or fewer alignment lugs 5216 mayextend from the ends 5212 in the same or a different configuration toform a keying arrangement with the printed circuit board 5220.

The MPO adapter 5210 also defines channels 5218 extending partly alongthe length of the passages 5215 (e.g., see FIGS. 129, 131, and 146) toaccommodate portions of the fiber connector arrangements 5100. In someimplementations, the adapter 5210 may define a channel 5218 extendinginwardly from each open end of the passage 5215. In one exampleimplementation, a first channel 5218 extends along a top of the housing5210 from a first end of each passage 5215 and a second channel 5218extends along a bottom of the housing 5210 from a second end of eachpassage 5215.

Each adapter housing 5210 includes at least one media reading interface5230 (e.g., see FIGS. 129, 131, and 146) configured to acquire thephysical layer information from a storage device 5130 of a fiberconnector arrangement 5100 (see FIGS. 134-139). In the example shown,each MPO adapter 5210 includes at least one media reading interface 5230that is configured to communicate with the storage device 5130 on an MPOconnector 5110 plugged into the MPO adapter 5210. For example, in oneimplementation, the adapter 5210 can include a media reading interface5230 associated with each passage 5215. In another implementation, theadapter 5210 can include a media reading interface 5230 associated witheach connection end of a passage 5215. As shown in FIGS. 130 and 132,each media reading interface 5230 includes one or more contact members531 at least extending into the channels 5218 of the adapter 5210.

FIGS. 133-139 show one example implementation of a connector arrangement5100 implemented as an MPO connector 5110 that is configured toterminate a multi-fiber optical cable 5010. As shown in FIG. 134, eachMPO connector 5110 includes a front connector body 5111 and a rearconnector body 5114 enclosing a ferrule 5112 (FIG. 134) that retainsmultiple optical fibers (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, or 16 fibers). The frontconnector body 5111 includes a key 5115 that is configured to fit in akeying slot or channel (e.g., channel 5218) defined in the adapter 5210to properly orient the connector 5100. The key 5115 includes a raised(i.e., or stepped up) portion of the front connector body 5111 locatedadjacent the ferrule 5112.

In certain implementations, the connector 5110 includes a pinarrangement 5119 that extends from a front of the ferrule 5112. In otherimplementations, the connector 5110 defines openings in the ferrule 5112for receiving the pin arrangement 5119 of another connector 5100 toalign the ferrules 5112 of the two connectors 5110 (e.g., see FIGS.145-147). The rear connector body 5114 is secured to a boot 5113 toprovide bend protection to the optical fibers. An example MPO dust cap5118 is configured to mount to the front connector body 5111 to coverand protect the ferrule 5112.

Each connector arrangement 5100 is configured to store physical layerinformation (e.g., media information). For example, the physical layerinformation can be stored in a memory device 5130 mounted on or in theconnector 5110. One example storage device 5130 includes a printedcircuit board 5131 on which memory circuitry can be arranged (e.g., seeFIGS. 137-139). Electrical contacts 5132 also may be arranged on theprinted circuit board 5131 for interaction with a media readinginterface of the communications coupler assembly 5200 (described in moredetail herein). In one example implementation, the storage device 5130includes an EEPROM circuit 5133 arranged on the printed circuit board5131. In the example shown in FIG. 134, an EEPROM circuit 5133 isarranged on the non-visible side of the circuit board 5131. In otherimplementations, however, the storage device 5130 can include anysuitable type of non-volatile memory.

As shown in FIGS. 135-136, the front body 5111 of one example fiberoptic connector 5110 may define a recessed section or cavity 5116 inwhich the storage device 5130 may be positioned. In someimplementations, the cavity 5116 is provided in the key 5115 of theconnector 5110. In other implementations, the cavity 5116 may beprovided elsewhere in the connector 5110. In some implementations, thecavity 5116 has a stepped configuration 5160 to facilitate positioningof the storage device 5130.

In the example shown, the cavity 5116 includes a well 5162 surrounded bya ledge 5164 (see FIG. 136A). The ledge 5164 is configured to supportthe storage device 5130. For example, the ledge 5164 may support theprinted circuit board 5131 of an example storage device 5130. The well5162 is sufficiently deep to accommodate an EEPROM circuit 5133 coupledto one side of the printed circuit board 5131. The ledge 5164 isrecessed sufficiently within the connector body 5111 to enableelectrical contacts 5132 provided on the opposite side of the printedcircuit board 5131 to be generally flush with the key 5115 of theconnector body 5111.

In certain implementations, the ledge 5164 has a ridged or otherwisecontoured surface to facilitate mounting the storage device within thecavity 5116. For example, in some implementations, contoured sections5166 of the ledge 5164 may increase the surface area over which anadhesive may be applied to secure the storage device 5130 within thecavity 5116. In the example shown, the contoured sections 5166 includerectangular-shaped protrusions and/or depressions. In otherimplementations, however, the ledge 5164 may have bumps, ridges, or someother texture to increase the surface area over which adhesive isapplied.

FIGS. 124 and 137-139 show three different implementations of examplestorage devices 5130 installed on example connectors 5110. FIGS. 124 and137 show a first example connector 5110 that includes a key 5115 havinga width W9 (FIG. 137). The key 5115 has a front surface 5118 againstwhich contacts 5231 of the communications coupler assembly 5200 deflectduring insertion of the connector 5110 as will be described in moredetail herein. The key 5115 also defines a recessed section or cavity5116A in which a storage device 5130A can be positioned. In the exampleshown in FIG. 137, the cavity 5116A is defined in a top of the key 5115and not on or in the deflecting surface 5118. In some implementations, acover can be positioned over the storage device 5130A to enclose thestorage device 5130A within the recessed section 5116A of the key 5115.In other implementations, the storage device 5130A is left uncovered andexposed.

The storage device 5130A shown in FIG. 137 includes generally planarcontacts 5132A positioned on a generally planar circuit board 5131A.Memory 5133 (FIGS. 145-147) of the storage device 5130A, which islocated on the non-visible side of the board in FIG. 137, is accessed byengaging the tops of the contacts 5132A with an electrically conductivecontact member (e.g., contact member 5231 of FIGS. 130 and 132). Incertain implementations, the contact member 5231 initially contacts thedeflecting surface 5118 and subsequently slides or wipes across thecontacts 5132A (see FIGS. 145-147).

In some implementations, the contacts 5132A have different lengths. Incertain implementations, the contacts 5132A have different shapes. Forexample, in some implementation, the contacts 5132A include one or morecontact members 5132A′ that have generally rounded ends opposite thedeflecting end 5118 of the connector 5110. In certain implementations,the contacts 5132A also include one or more contact members 5132A″ thatare generally L-shaped. In the example shown, the L-shaped contacts5132A″ are longer than the rounded end contacts 5132A′. In otherimplementations, however, the contacts 5132A may have the same length ormay each have different lengths.

FIGS. 138 and 138A show a second example front connector body 5110B thatincludes a key 5115 having a deflection surface 5118B. The key 5115defines a recessed section or cavity 5116B in which a storage device5130B can be positioned. In the example shown, the cavity 5116B cutsinto the deflecting surface 5118B of the key 5115. In someimplementations, a cover can be positioned over the storage device 5130Bto enclose the storage device 5130B within the key 5115. In otherimplementations, the storage device 5130B is left uncovered and exposed.In the example shown, the first sections 5135B of the contacts 5132Bhave two different lengths. In other implementations, however, the firstsections 5135B of the contacts 5132B may all be the same length or mayeach be a different length. In certain implementations, the contacts5132B may be the same shape of different shapes.

The storage device 5130B shown in FIG. 138A includes contacts 5132Bhaving first sections 5135B that extend over a generally planar circuitboard 5131B and folded sections 5134B that curve, fold, or bend over afront end 5136B of the board 5131B. In some implementations, the memory5133 of the storage device 5130B, which is located on the non-visibleside of the board in FIG. 138A, is accessed by sliding or wiping thecontact member 5231 (FIGS. 130 and 132) of the coupler housing 5210across the folded sections 5134B of the contacts 5132B. In otherimplementations, the memory 5133 of the storage device 5130B is accessedby sliding or wiping the contact member 5231 of the coupler housing 5210across the first sections 5135B of the contacts 5132B.

FIGS. 139 and 139A show a third example front connector body 5110C thatincludes a key 5115 having a deflection wall 5118. The key 5115 definesa recessed section or cavity 5116C in which a storage device 5130C canbe positioned. In the example shown, the cavity 5116C cuts into thedeflection wall 5118C of the key 5115. In some implementations, a covercan be positioned over the storage device 5130C to enclose the storagedevice 5130C within the key 5115. In other implementations, the storagedevice 5130C is left uncovered and exposed. In the example shown, thefirst sections 5135C of the contacts 5132C have two different lengths.In other implementations, however, the first sections 5135C of thecontacts 5132C may all be the same length or may each be a differentlength. In certain implementations, the contacts 5132C may be differentshapes or the same shape.

The storage device 5130C shown in FIG. 139A includes contacts 5132Chaving first sections 5135C that extend over a generally planar circuitboard 5131C and contoured sections 5134C that curve, fold, or bend overa contoured section 5136C at the front of the board 5131C. In someimplementations, the memory 5133 of the storage device 5130C, which islocated on the non-visible side of the board in FIG. 139A, is accessedby sliding or wiping the contact member 5231 (FIGS. 130 and 132) of thecoupler housing 5210 across the contoured section 5134C of the contacts5132C. In other implementations, the memory 5133 of the storage device5130C is accessed by sliding or wiping the contact member 5231 of thecoupler housing 5210 across the first sections 5135C of the contacts5132C.

In general, memory circuitry is arranged on a circuit board 5131 of thestorage device 5130 and connected to the contacts 5132 via conductivetracings. In one example embodiment, the storage device 5130 includes anEEPROM circuit arranged on the printed circuit board 5131. In otherembodiments, however, the storage device 5130 can include any suitabletype of memory. In some implementations, the cavity 5116 is two-tiered,thereby providing a shoulder on which the storage device 5130 can restand space to accommodate circuitry (e.g., memory 5133) located on abottom of the storage device 5130. In other implementations, the storagedevice 5130 can be otherwise mounted to the connector 5110.

FIGS. 140-143 show an example media reading interface 5230 of the MPOadapter 5200. In general, each media reading interface 5230 is formedfrom one or more contact members 5231. One or both ends 5212 of theadapter housing 5210 defines one or more slots 5214 that lead to thechannels 5218 (see FIG. 145). The contact members 5231 are positionedwithin the slots 5214 as will be described in more detail herein. Incertain implementations, at least a portion of each contact member 5231extends into the respective channel 5218 (e.g., see FIG. 145) to engagethe electrical contacts 5132 of the storage member 5130 of any MPOconnector 5100 positioned in the passage 5215. Other portions of thecontact members 5231 are configured to protrude outwardly through theslots 5214 to engage contacts and tracings on a printed circuit board5220 (e.g., see FIG. 145).

In some implementations, the MPO adapter housing 5210 includes a firstmedia reading interface 5230A and a second media reading interface5230B. For example, in some implementations, the first media readinginterface 5230A is associated with a first connection end of the passage5215 and the second media reading interface 5230B is associated with asecond connection end of the passage 5215. In the example shown, thesecond media reading interface 5230B is flipped (i.e., located on anopposite side of the housing 5210) relative to the first media readinginterface 5230A. In some such implementations, the channel 5218extending inwardly from the first connection end of the passage 5215also is flipped with respect to the channel 5218 extending inwardly fromthe second end of the passage 5215 (compare FIGS. 129 and 130). In otherimplementations, each adapter housing 5210 may include greater or fewermedia reading interfaces 5230.

In the example shown in FIGS. 126, 127, 145, and 146, flipping theorientation of the connectors 5110 between the front and rear portsenables each of the major surfaces 5212 of the adapter 5210 to beconfigured to receive only one media reading interface 5130 for eachpassage 5215. For example, in some implementations, the media readinginterfaces 5130 for the front ports of the passages 5521S areaccommodated by a first of the major surfaces 5212 and the media readinginterfaces 5130 for the rear ports of the passages 5215 are accommodatedby a second of the major surfaces 5212. Such a configuration enableseach slot 5214 to extend more than half-way between the front and rearof the adapter 5210.

In other implementations, each major surface 5212 of the adapter 5210may accommodate the media reading interfaces 5130 for some of the frontports and some of the rear ports. For example, in one implementation,each major surface 5212 accommodates the media reading interfaces foralternating ones of the front and rear ports. In particular, a firstslot in the first major surface 5212 may accommodate a media readinginterface 5130 for a front port of a first passage 5215 and a first slot5214 in the second major surface 5212 may accommodate a media readinginterface 5130 for a rear port of the first passage 5215. A second slot5214 in the first major surface 5212 may accommodate a media readinginterface 5130 for a rear port of a second passage 5215 and a secondslot 5214 in the second major surface 5212 may accommodate a mediareading interface 5130 for a front port of the second passage 5215. Suchconfigurations also enable each slot 5214 to extend more than half-waybetween the front and rear of the adapter 5210.

Lengthening the slots 5214 enables longer contact members 5231 to bereceived within each slot 5214. For example, each contact member 5231may extend at least half-way across the adapter 5210 between the frontand rear of the adapter 5210. In certain implementations, each contactmember 5231 may extend across a majority of the distance between thefront and rear of the adapter 5210. Lengthening the contact members 5231increases the beam length of each contact member 5231. The beam lengthaffects the ability of the contact member 5231 to deflect toward andaway from the circuit boards 5220.

In some implementations, the contact members 5231 of a single mediareading interface 5230 are positioned in a staggered configuration tofacilitate access to the contacts 5132 on the connector storage device5130 of a connector arrangement 5100. For example, alternating contactmembers 5231 can be staggered between at least front and rear locationswithin the channels 5218. FIG. 140 is a perspective view of an examplecoupler housing 5210 with first and second media reading interfaces5230A, 5230B exploded out from the slots 5214 defined in the couplerhousing 5210. FIG. 141 shows the contact members 5231 of an examplemedia reading interface 5230 positioned within an example slot 5214 in astaggered configuration. In other implementations, the contact members5231 may be laterally aligned.

In some implementations, each media reading interface 5230 includesabout four contact members 5231 (see FIG. 140). In the example shown inFIGS. 145-148, at least portions of two contact members 5231 are visiblypositioned within a slot 5214 defined in a fiber optic adapter 5210,shown in cross-section. Two additional contact members 5231 also arepositioned in the slot 5214, but cannot be seen since the additionalcontact members 5231 laterally align with the visible contact members5231. In other implementations, however, greater or fewer contactmembers 5231 may be positioned within the housing 5210.

One example type of contact member 5231 suitable for use in forming amedia reading interface 5230 is shown in FIGS. 142-143. Each contactmember 4231 defines at least three moveable (e.g., flexible) contactlocations 5235, 5238, and 5239. The flexibility of the contact surfaces5235, 5238, and 5239 provides tolerance for differences in spacingbetween the contact member 5231 and the respective printed circuit board5220 when the coupler assembly 5200 is manufactured. Certain types ofcontact members 5231 also include at least one stationary contact 5233.

The example contact member 5231 shown includes a base 5232 that isconfigured to be positioned within a slot 5214 defined by an adapter5210. The base 5232 of certain types of contact members 5231 isconfigured to secure (e.g., snap-fit, latch, pressure-fit, etc.) to theadapter 5210. A first arm 5234 of the contact member 5231 defines thefirst moveable contact location 5235 (e.g., at a distal end of the firstarm 5234). A second arm 5236 of the contact member 5231 defines aresilient section 5237, the second moveable contact location 5238, andthe third moveable contact location 5239. The base 5232 of the contactmember body 5240 defines a support surface 5241 extending between firstand second legs 5242, 5243, respectively. The first arm 5234 extendsfrom the first leg 5242 and the second arm 5236 extends from the secondleg 5243. In the example shown, the first and second arms 5234, 5236extend in generally the same direction from the first and second legs5242, 5243.

Mounting sections 5244 are provided on the base 5232 between the supportsurface 5241 and the legs 5242, 5243. In the example shown, the mountingsections 5244 each include a recessed notch and a protruding bump tofacilitate securing the base 5232 in a slot 5214 of the adapter 5210. Inother implementations, however, other types of mounting configurationsmay be utilized. The second leg 5243 and the second arm 5236 define asecond support surface 5245. In the example shown, the second supportsurface 5245 is rounded. In other implementations, the second supportsurface 5245 may define a right angle or an oblique angle.

At least the first moveable contact location 5235 is aligned andconfigured to extend outwardly of the adapter housing 5210 through theslots 5214 to touch a first contact pad on the corresponding circuitboard 5220 (e.g., see FIGS. 145-147). The ability of the first arm 5234to flex relative to the legs 5242, 5243 provides tolerance for placementof the contact member 5231 relative to the circuit board 5220. Incertain implementations, each of the legs 5242, 5243 defines astationary contact location 5233 that also touches the first contact padon the circuit board 5220. In one implementation, the stationarycontacts 5233 and first moveable contact 5235 provide grounding of thecontact member 5231.

In some implementations, the resilient section 5237 is implemented as alooped/bent section of the second leg 5236. In one implementation, theresilient section 5237 of the second arm 5236 is formed from one or moreelongated sections connected by U-shaped bends. In otherimplementations, the second arm 5236 can otherwise include springs,reduced width sections, or portions formed from more resilientmaterials. In the example shown, the resilient section 5237 is formedfrom a first elongated section 5246 extending away from the second leg5243, a second elongated section 5247 extending generally parallel tothe first elongated section 5246 back towards the second leg 5243, and athird elongated section 5248 extending generally parallel to the firstand second elongated sections 5246, 5247 and away from the second leg5243.

The third elongated section 5248 includes a trough that defines thesecond contact location 5238. In certain implementations, the troughdefining the second contact location 5238 is located at an intermediateportion of the third elongated section 5248. In one implementation, thetrough defining the second contact location 5238 is located at about thecenter of the third elongated member 5248. A tail 5249 extends from thethird elongated section 5248 to define the third contact location 5239.In some implementations, the tail 5249 is generally S-shaped. In otherimplementations, however, the tail 5249 may be C-shaped, J-shaped,U-shaped, L-shaped, or linear.

In some implementations, the body of the contact member 5231 extendsbetween a first and second end. In the example shown in FIG. 142, thefirst leg 5242 is located at the first end and the third contact section5239 is located at the second end. The contact member 5231 also extendsbetween a top and a bottom. In some implementations, the contactsurfaces of the first and third contact sections 5235, 5239 face and/ordefine the top of the contact member 5231 and the contact surface of thesecond contact section 5238 faces and/or defines the bottom of thecontact member 5231. In the example shown, the first and third contactsections 5235, 5239 extend at least partially towards the top of thecontact member 5231 and the second contact section 5238 extends towardsthe bottom of the contact member 5231. As used herein, the terms “top”and “bottom” are not meant to imply a proper orientation of the contactmember 5231 or that the top of the contact member 5231 must be locatedabove the bottom of the contact member 5231. Rather, the terms are usedfor ease in understanding and are assigned relative to the viewing planeof FIG. 142.

The contact member 5231 defines a body having a circumferential edge5240 (FIG. 143) extending between planar major sides (FIG. 142). Incertain implementations, the edge 5240 defines the contact surface ofeach contact section 5233, 5235, 5238, 5239 (see FIGS. 147-150). In someimplementations, the edge 5240 has a substantially continuous thicknessT2 (FIG. 143). In various implementations, the thickness T2 ranges fromabout 0.05 inches to about 0.005 inches. In certain implementations, thethickness T2 is less than about 0.02 inches. In some implementation, thethickness T2 is less than about 0.012 inches. In another implementation,the thickness T2 is about 0.01 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T2 is about 0.009 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T2 is about 0.008 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T2 is about 0.007 inches. In another implementation, thethickness T2 is about 0.006 inches. In other implementations, thethickness T2 may vary across the body of the contact member 5231.

Portions of the planar surfaces of the contact member 5231 may increaseand/or decrease in width. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 142,the base 5232 and legs 5242, 5243 are wider than either of the arms5234, 5236. In certain implementations, the contact surface of the firstcontact section 5235 may be rounded or otherwise contoured. For example,in FIG. 142, the first contact section 5235 defines a bulbous tip. Thesecond contact section 5238 defines a trough in the third elongatedmember 5248. The mounting sections 5244 define detents and protrusionsin the planar surface of the base 5232.

In some implementations, the contact member 5231 is formedmonolithically (e.g., from a continuous sheet of metal or othermaterial). For example, in some implementations, the contact member 5231may be manufactured by cutting a planar sheet of metal or othermaterial. In other implementations, the contact member5231 may bemanufactured by etching a planar sheet of metal or other material. Inother implementations, the contact member 5231 may be manufactured bylaser trimming a planar sheet of metal or other material. In still otherimplementations, the contact member 5231 may be manufactured by stampinga planar sheet of metal or other material.

FIG. 145 shows a cross-sectional view of an MPO adapter housing 5210defining a passage 5215 extending between the front and rear of theadapter 5210. The adapter housing 5210 is sandwiched between the firstexample circuit board 5220F and the second example circuit board 5220Svia fasteners 5222. A first connector 5100F is fully inserted into theadapter passage 5215 from the front end of the adapter 5210 and a secondconnector 5100S is partially inserted into the adapter passage 5215 fromthe rear end of the adapter 5210. In some implementations, each of theconnectors 5100F, 5100S includes a storage device 5130F, 5130S,respectively. In other implementations, only one of the connectors5100F, 5100S includes a storage device.

The adapter housing 5210 defines at least a first slot 5214F extendingthrough a top end 5212F of the adapter 5210 and at least a second slot5214S extending through a bottom end 5212S of the adapter 5210. In someimplementations, each end 5212F, 5212S of the adapter housing 5210defines one slot 5214 that is configured to hold one or more contactmembers 5231. In other implementations, each end 5212F, 5212S of theadapter housing 5210 defines multiple slots 5214F, 5214S, which are eachconfigured to hold one or more contact members 5231. The slots 5214F,5214S extend at least part-way across the passage 5215. In the exampleshown, each slot 5214F, 5214S extends across a majority of the length ofthe passage 5215. In other implementations, each slot 5214F, 5214S mayextend a greater or lesser distance across the passage 5215.

As discussed above, each adapter 5210 includes a first channel 5218Fextending inwardly from a front connection end of the passage 5215 and asecond channel 5218S extending inwardly from a rear connection end ofthe passage 5215. Each channel 5218F, 5218S is configured to accommodatethe key 5215 of the respective connector 5100F, 5100S. In someimplementations, each channel 5218F, 5218S extends about half-waythrough the passage 5215. In other implementations, each channel 5218F,5218S extends a greater or lesser distance through the passage 5215.Each channel 5218F, 5218S is associated with one of the slots 5214F,5214S. In some implementations, each channel 5218F, 5218S extends fullyacross the respective slot 5214F, 5214S. In other implementations, eachchannel 5218F, 5218S extends only partially across the respective slot5214F, 5214S.

In some implementations, at least a portion of each slot 5214F, 5214Sextends partially through the top and bottom ends 5212F, 5212S of theadapter 5210. For example, one or more portions of the slots 5214F,5214S can extend through the respective ends 5212F, 5212S to recessedsurfaces 5205 (FIG. 146). In certain implementations, at least a portionof each slot 5214F, 5214S is shallower than the rest of the slot 5214F,5214S. For example, the first and second ends 5212F, 5212S may definesupport walls 5206 (FIG. 146) extending from the recessed surfaces 5205towards the exterior of the ends 5212F, 5212S. At least a portion of thetop and bottom ends 5212F, 5212S of the adapter 5210 define openings5207 (FIG. 146) that connect the slots 5214F, 5214S to the associatedchannels 5218F, 5218S. At least a portion of the top and bottom ends5212F, 5212S defines a shoulder 5209 at one end of each slot 5214F,5214S.

A first media reading interface 5230F is positioned in the first slot5214F and a second media reading interface 5230S is positioned in thesecond slot 5214B. In some implementations, each media reading interface5230F, 5230S includes one or more contact members 5231 (see FIG. 142).The first support surface 5241 of the base 5232 of each contact member5231 is seated on the recessed surface 5205 of each slot 5214F, 5214S.The second support surface 5245 of each contact member 5231 abuts asupport wall 5206 in each slot 5214F, 5214S. The second contact location5238 of each contact member 5231 aligns with the openings 5207 thatconnect the slots 5214F, 5214S to the channels 5218F, 5218S. The thirdcontact location 5239 of each contact members 5237 is accommodated bythe shoulder 5209 at the end of each slot 5214F, 5214S.

In the example shown, the contact members 5231 are staggered within theslots 5214F, 5214S. In other implementations, the contact members 5231may be laterally aligned within the slots 5214F, 5214S. In someimplementations, the first and second ends 5212F, 5212S of the adapter5210 define intermediate walls that extend between pairs of adjacentcontact members 5231. The intermediate walls inhibit contact betweenadjacent contact members 5231. In certain implementations, theintermediate walls extend fully between the adjacent contact members5231. In other implementations, intermediate wall sections 5204 extendbetween portions of the adjacent contact members 5231.

In the example shown in FIG. 146, each slot 5214F, 5214S includes one ormore intermediate wall sections 5204 between each pair of adjacentcontact members 5231. For example, in certain implementations, anintermediate wall section 5204 in each slot 5214F, 5214S extends acrossthe first leg 5242 of one or both contact members 5231 in each pair ofadjacent contact members 5231 to aid in securing the contact member 5231in the respective slot 5214F, 5214S (e.g., see intermediate wall section5204 in slot 5214S in FIG. 146).

In some implementations, an intermediate wall section 5204 in each slot5214F, 5214S extends across the first contact location 5235 of one orboth contact members 5231 in each pair of adjacent contact members 5231(e.g., see intermediate wall section 5204 in slot 5214F in FIG. 146).For example, the intermediate wall section 5204 may inhibit lateralbending of the first arm 5234 of one or more contact members 5231 withinthe slot 5214F, 5214S. In some implementations, the intermediate wallsection 5204 extends across the first contact locations 5235 ofalternating contact members 5231. In other implementations, theintermediate wall section 5204 is sufficiently wide to extend across thefirst contact locations 5235 of adjacent staggered contact member 5231.In still other implementations, the intermediate wall section 5204 mayextend across the first contact locations 5235 of adjacent non-staggeredcontact members 5231.

In some implementations, an intermediate wall section 5204 extendsacross at least a portion of the second arm 5236 of one or both contactmembers 5231 in each pair of adjacent contact members 5231. In certainimplementations, the intermediate wall section 5204 extends between theU-shaped bends joining the second and third elongated sections 5247,5248 of the resilient sections 5237 of one or more contact members 5231in the slot 5214F, 5214S. In certain implementations, the intermediatewall section 5204 extends across the second leg 5243 of one or bothcontact members 5231 in each pair of adjacent contact members 5231. Incertain implementations, the support walls 5206 extend laterally betweenthe intermediate walls 5204 (e.g., see FIG. 146).

In some implementations, an intermediate wall section 5204 extendsacross the third contact location 5239 of one or both contact members5231 in each pair of adjacent contact members 5231. For example, theintermediate wall section 5204 may inhibit lateral bending of the tail5239 of one or more contact members 5231 within the slot 5214F, 5214S.In certain implementations, the intermediate wall section 5204 extendsbetween the U-shaped bends joining the first and second elongatedsections 5246, 5247 of the resilient sections 5237 of one or morecontact members 5231 in the slot 5214F, 5214S.

As discussed above, a processor (e.g., processor 217 of FIG. 2) or othersuch equipment also can be electrically coupled to the printed circuitboards 5220F, 5220S. Accordingly, the processor can communicate with thememory circuitry on the storage devices 5130F, 5130S via the contactmembers 5231 and the printed circuit boards 5220F, 5220S. In accordancewith some aspects, the processor is configured to obtain physical layerinformation from the storage devices 5130F, 5130S. In accordance withother aspects, the processor is configured to write (e.g., new orrevised) physical layer information to the storage devices 5130F, 5130S.In accordance with other aspects, the processor is configured to deletephysical layer information to the storage device 5130F, 5130S. In oneexample implementation of a media reading interface 5230F, 5230S, atleast a first contact member 5231 transfers power, at least a secondcontact member 5231 transfers data, and at least a third contact member5231 provide grounding. However, any suitable number of contact members5231 can be utilized within each media reading interfaces 5230F, 5230S.

In accordance with some aspects, the contact members 5231 are configuredto selectively form a complete circuit with one or more of the printedcircuit boards 5220. For example, each printed circuit board 5220 mayinclude two contact pads for each contact member. In certainimplementations, a first portion of each contact member 5231 touches afirst of the contact pads and a second portion of each contact member5231 selectively touches a second of the contact pads. The processorcoupled to the circuit board 5220 may determine when the circuit iscomplete. Accordingly, the contact members 5231 can function as presencedetection sensors for determining whether a media segment has beeninserted into the passages 5215.

In certain implementations, the first moveable contact 5235 of eachcontact member is configured to contact one of the contact pads of thecircuit board 5220. In one implementation, the first moveable contactlocation 5235 is configured to permanently touch the contact pad as longas the circuit board 5220 and contact member 5231 are assembled on theadapter 5210. The third contact location 5239 of certain types ofcontact members 5231 is configured to touch a second contact pad of theprinted circuit board 5220 only when a segment of physicalcommunications media (e.g., an MPO connector 5110) is inserted within anadapter passage 5215 and pushes the second contact location 5238 out ofthe channel 2218, which pushes the third contact location 5239 throughthe slot 5214 and against the circuit board 5220. In accordance withother aspects, the contact members 5231 are configured to form acomplete circuit with the printed circuit board 5220 regardless ofwhether a media segment is received in the passage 5215.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 145 and 147, the stationary contacts 5233and the first moveable contact location 5235 of each contact member 5231are configured to extend through the respective slot 5214F, 5214S totouch contacts or tracings on the respective printed circuit board5220F, 5220S mounted to the adapter end 5212A, 5212S defining the slot5214F, 5214S. In certain implementations, the stationary contact 5233and the first contact location 5235 touch the respective printed circuitboard 5220F, 5220S regardless of whether or not a connector arrangement5100F, 5100S has been inserted into the passage 5215.

The resilient section 5237 (FIG. 142) of each contact member 5231 isconfigured to bias the second contact location 5238 out of therespective slot 5214F, 5214S towards the respective channel 5218F,5218S. For example, when a connector arrangement (e.g., see secondconnector arrangement 5100S of FIG. 145) is being inserted into thepassage 5215 of the MPO adapter 5210, the key 5115 of the secondconnector arrangement 5110S slides within the second channel 5218S ofthe adapter 5210. When the second connector arrangement 5100S is atleast partially within the passage 5215, the deflecting end 5118B of thekey 5115 engages the second contact location 5238 of each contact member5231 of the second media reading interface 5230S. Continuing to insertthe connector arrangement 5100S biases the second contact locations 5238from the second channel 5218S towards the second slot 5214S.

When a connector arrangement (e.g., see first connector arrangement5100F of FIG. 145) has been fully inserted within the passage 5215 ofthe adapter 5210, the second contact locations 5238 of the contactmembers 5231 of the first media reading interface 5230F touch thecontact members 5132 of the storage device 5130F of the first connectorarrangement 5100F (e.g., see FIG. 148). In some implementations, thesecond contact locations 5238 touch the contacts 5132 of the storagedevice 5130F only when the first connector arrangement 5100F has beeninserted completely within the passage 5215. In other implementations,the second contact locations 5238 touch the contacts 5132 of the storagedevice 5130F when the deflecting surface 5118 of the connectorarrangement 5100 contacts the trough defined by the second arm 5236 ofeach contact member 5231.

The third contact location 5239 of each contact member 5231 isconfigured to be positioned initially within the shoulder section 5209of the respective slot 5214F, 5214S of the adapter housing 5210. In someimplementations, the distal end of the tail 5249 rests against theshoulder 5209 when a respective connector arrangement 5100F, 5100S isnot within the passage 5215. In other implementations, the distal end ofthe tail 5249 is located between the shoulder 5209 and the respectiveprinted circuit board 5220 when the respective connector arrangement5100F, 5100S is not within the passage 5215.

The resilient section 5237 of each contact member 5231 is configured tobias the third contact location 5239 away from the shoulder 5209 andtowards the respective circuit board 5220F, 5220S when the respectiveconnector arrangement 5100F, 5100S or other media segment pushes againstthe second contact location 5238 (see FIGS. 146 and 148). For example,inserting an MPO connector (e.g., second connector arrangement 5110S)into the passage 5215 would cause the key 5115 of the second connectorarrangement 5100S to push the second contact location 5238 toward thesecond circuit board 5220S, which would push the third contact location5239 through the second slot 5214S and toward the second circuit board5220S.

In accordance with some aspects, the contact members 5231 are configuredto form a complete circuit with one or more of the printed circuitboards 5220F, 5220S only when a segment of physical communications mediais inserted within the adapter passage 5215. For example, the thirdcontact location 5239 of each contact member 5231 can be configured tocontact the respective circuit board 5220F, 5220S only after beingpushed through the respective slot 5214F, 5214S by the media segment.Accordingly, certain types of contact members 5231 function as presencedetection sensors for determining whether a media segment has beeninserted into the passages 5215.

In certain implementations, the resilient section 5237 of each contactmember 5231 is configured to bias the third contact surface 5239 towardsthe circuit board 5220F, 5220S when the key of a connectorized mediasegment (e.g., MPO connectors 5100F, 5100S) is inserted into the passage5215 regardless of whether a storage device 5130 is provided on or inthe key 5115. In accordance with other aspects, the contact members 5231are configured to form a complete circuit with the respective circuitboard 5220F, 5220S regardless of whether a media segment is received inthe passage 5215.

FIGS. 149-151 show one example implementation of the circuit board 5220described above. The same or similar circuit boards 5220 are suitablefor use in any of the coupler assemblies described herein. In someimplementations, the circuit board 5220 defines fastener receivingopenings 5227 through which fasteners 5222 may be inserted to secure thecircuit board 5220. In certain implementations, the circuit board 5220defines alignment openings 5226 in which alignment lugs 5216 are seated.The example circuit board 5220 includes a plurality of first contactpads 5223 and a plurality of second contact pads 5224 spaced from thefirst contact pads 5223. In certain implementations, the first contactpads 5223 are laterally aligned with each other and the second contactpads 5224 are laterally aligned with each other. In otherimplementations, however, the first contact pads 5223 may be laterallyoffset or staggered from each other and/or the second contact pads 5224may be laterally offset of staggered from each other. In certainimplementations, each of the first contact pads 5223 is longitudinallyaligned with one of the second contact pads 5224 (see FIG. 150) to forma landing pair. In other implementations, however, the first and secondcontact pads 5223, 5224 may be longitudinally offset from each other.

A media reading interface (e.g., media reading interface 5230) may beseated on the printed circuit board 5220. In the example shown, thefirst moveable contact surface 5235 of each contact member 5231 of themedia reading interface 5230 touches one of the first contact pads 5223.In certain implementations, the stationary contacts 5223 also touch thefirst contact pads 5223. The third moveable contact surface 5239 of eachcontact member 5231 is configured to selectively touch the secondcontact pad 5224 that forms a landing pair with the first contact pad5223. In certain implementations, at least a portion of the resilientsection 5237 also selectively touches the second contact pad 5224 (seeFIG. 146) when the third contact surface 5239 touches the second contactpad 5224.

Referring to FIGS. 152-155, dust caps 5250 can be used to protectpassages 5215 of the adapter housings 5210 when connector arrangements5100 or other physical media segments are not received within thepassages 5215. For example, a dust cap 5250 can be configured to fitwithin a front entrance or a rear entrance of each adapter passage 5215.The dust caps 5250 are configured to inhibit the ingress of dust, dirt,or other contaminants into the passage 5215. In accordance with someimplementations, the dust caps 5250 are configured not to trigger thepresence sensor/switch of the adapter 5210.

FIG. 152 shows one example implementation of an adapter dust cap 5250.The example dust cap 5250 includes a cover 5251 configured to fit over amouth 5213 of the passage 5215. A handle including a stem 5253 and grip5254 extend outwardly from a first side of the cover 5251. The handlefacilitates insertion and withdrawal of the dust cap 5250 from thepassage 5215. A retaining section 5252 extends outwardly from a secondside of the cover 5251. The retaining section 5252 defines a concavecontour 5256 extending between two fingers 5258. One or both fingers5258 include lugs 5255 that are configured to interact with the flexibletabs 5219 of the adapter housing 5210 to retain the dust cap 5250 withinthe passage 5215. In the example shown, each lug 5255 defines a rampedsurface.

In some implementations, the retaining section 5252 is configured to fitwithin the passage 5215 without pressing against the second contactlocation 5238 of each contact member 5231 of the media readinginterfaces 5230 (see FIG. 155). In the example shown, the fingers 5258of the retaining section 5252 are sufficiently short to remain withinthe passage 5215 of the adapter 5210 instead of extending into thechannels 5218. Insertion of the dust cap 5250 within the passage 5215does not cause the third contact location 5239 to press against theprinted circuit board 5220. Accordingly, insertion of the dust cap 5250does not trigger the presence detection sensor/switch.

FIGS. 156-275 show various implementations of alternative contactarrangements that are suitable for use as media reading interfaces forany of the optical adapters disclosed herein. For example, FIGS. 156-168illustrate another example implementation of a connector system 7000that can be utilized on a connector assembly (e.g., a communicationspanel) having PLI functionality as well as PLM functionality. Theconnector system 7000 includes at least one example communicationscoupler assembly 7200 and at least two connector arrangements 7100. Inthe example shown, the communications coupler assembly 7200 isconfigured to receive four connector arrangements 7100.

The communications coupler assembly 7200 is configured to be mounted toa connector assembly, such as a communications blade or a communicationspanel. One or more connector arrangements 7100, which terminate segmentsof communications media, are configured to communicatively couple toother segments of physical communications media at the coupler assembly7200 (e.g., see FIG. 165). Accordingly, communications data signalscarried by a media segment terminated by a first connector arrangement7100 can be propagated to another media segment terminated by a secondconnector arrangement 7100 through the communications coupler assembly7200.

In some implementations, each connector arrangement 7100 defines aduplex fiber optic connector arrangement including two connectors, eachof which terminates an optical fiber. In the example shown, theconnector arrangements 7100 are the same as connector arrangements 4100of FIGS. 103-111. In other implementations, however, the connectorarrangements 7100 may include an SC-type connector arrangement, anST-type connector arrangement, an FC-type connector arrangement, anMPO-type connector arrangement, an LX.5-type connector arrangement, orany other type of connector arrangement.

In accordance with some aspects, each communications coupler assembly7200 is configured to form a single link between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, each communications coupler assembly7200 can define a single passage at which a first connector arrangementis coupled to a second connector arrangement. In accordance with otheraspects, however, each communications coupler assembly 7200 isconfigured to form two or more links between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 156, thecommunications coupler assembly 7200 defines four passages 7215.

In some implementations, each passage 7215 of the communications couplerassembly 7200 is configured to form a single link between first andsecond connector arrangements 7100. In other example implementations,two or more passages 7215 can form a single link between connectorarrangements 7100 (e.g., two ports can form a link between duplexconnector arrangements). In still other example implementations, eachcommunications coupler assembly 7200 can form a one-to-many link. Forexample, the communications coupler assembly 7200 can connect a duplexconnector arrangement to two single connector arrangements or to anotherduplex connector arrangement.

One example implementation of a connector arrangement 7100 is shown inFIG. 156. Each connector arrangements 7100 includes one or more fiberoptic connectors, each of which terminates one or more optical fibers.In the example shown, each connector arrangement 7100 defines a duplexfiber optic connector arrangement including two fiber optic connectorsheld together using a clip 7150. In another example implementation, aconnector arrangement 7100 can define a single fiber optic connector. Asshown, each fiber optic connector includes a connector body protecting aferrule 7112 that retains an optical fiber. The connector body issecured to a boot for providing bend protection to the optical fiber. Inthe example shown, the connector is an LC-type fiber optic connector.The connector body includes a fastening member (e.g., clip arm) thatfacilitates retaining the fiber optic connector within a passage 7215 inthe communications coupler assembly 7200.

Each connector arrangement 7100 is configured to store physical layerinformation. For example, a storage device 7130 may be installed on orin the body of one or more of the fiber optic connectors of eachconnector arrangement 7100. In the example shown, the storage device7130 is installed on only one fiber optic connector of a duplexconnector arrangement 7100. In other implementations, however, a storagedevice 7130 may be installed on each fiber optic connector of aconnector arrangement 7100. In the example shown, the storage device7130 is located within a key 7115 of each connector arrangement 7100. Inother implementations, the storage device 7130 may be located at anotherposition on or in the connector arrangement 7100.

One example storage device 7130 includes a printed circuit board 7131 onwhich memory circuitry can be arranged (see FIG. 157). Electricalcontacts 7132 also are arranged on the printed circuit board 7131 forinteraction with a media reading interface of the communications couplerassembly 7200 (described in more detail herein). Any of theimplementations of electrical contacts 7132 disclosed herein aresuitable for use in the storage device 7130. In one exampleimplementation, the storage device 7130 includes an EEPROM circuit 7133(FIG. 164) arranged on the printed circuit board 7131. In the exampleshown in FIG. 156, an EEPROM circuit 7133 is arranged on the non-visibleside of the circuit board 7131. In other implementations, however, thestorage device 7130 can include any suitable type of non-volatilememory.

FIGS. 158-161 show one example implementation of a communicationscoupler assembly 7200 implemented as a fiber optic adapter. The examplecommunications coupler assembly 7200 includes an adapter housing 7210configured to align and interface two or more fiber optic connectorarrangements 7100. In other example implementations, the adapter housing7210 may be configured to communicatively couple together a fiber opticconnector with a media converter (not shown) to convert the optical datasignals into electrical data signals, wireless data signals, or othersuch data signals. In still other implementations, the communicationscoupler assembly 7200 can include an electrical termination block thatis configured to receive punch-down wires, electrical plugs (e.g., forelectrical jacks), or other types of electrical connectors.

The example adapter housing 7210 is formed from opposing sides 7211interconnected by first and second ends 7212 (FIG. 158). The sides 7211and ends 7212 each extend between a front and a rear. The adapterhousing 7210 defines one or more passages extending between the frontand rear ends. Each end of each passage defines a port 7215 configuredto receive a connector arrangement or portion thereof (e.g., one fiberoptic connector of duplex connector arrangement 7100 of FIG. 156). Asplit sleeve 7206 is located in each passage to align ferrules 7215 ofopposing connectors received at the ports 7215.

In the example shown, the adapter housing 7210 defines four passages andeight ports 7215. In other implementations, however, the adapter housing7210 may define one, two, three, six, eight, ten, twelve, sixteen, oreven more passages. Sleeves (e.g., split sleeves) 7206 are positionedwithin the passages to receive and align the ferrules 7112 of fiberoptic connectors (see FIG. 165). In certain implementations, the adapterhousing 7210 also defines latch engagement channel 7217 (FIG. 158) ateach port 7215 to facilitate retention of the latch arms of the fiberoptic connectors. Each latch engagement channel 7217 is sized and shapedto receive the key or keys 7115 of the connector arrangement 7100.

As shown in FIGS. 156 and 162, a printed circuit board 7220 isconfigured to secure (e.g., via fasteners 7222) to the adapter housing7210. In some implementations, the example adapter housing 7210 includestwo annular walls in which the fasteners 7222 can be inserted to holdthe printed circuit board 7220 to the adapter housing 7210. Non-limitingexamples of suitable fasteners 7222 include screws, snaps, and rivets.For ease in understanding, only a portion of the printed circuit board7220 is shown in FIGS. 156 and 162. It is to be understood that theprinted circuit board 7220 electrically connects to a data processorand/or to a network interface (e.g., the processor 217 and networkinterface 216 of FIG. 2). It is further to be understood that multiplecommunications coupler housings 7210 can be connected to the printedcircuit board 7220 within a connector assembly (e.g., a communicationspanel).

The fiber optic adapter 4210 includes one or more media readinginterfaces 7230, each configured to connect the printed circuit board7220 to the storage devices 7130 of the fiber optic connectorarrangements 7100 plugged into the fiber optic adapter 7210. The contactmembers 7231 extend between the slotted surface 7212 of the adapterhousing 7210 and the passages extending through the adapter 7210.Portions of each contact member 7231 engage contacts and tracings on theprinted circuit board 7220 mounted to the slotted surface 7212. Otherportions of the contact members 7231 engage the electrical contacts 7132of the storage members 7130 attached to any connector arrangements 7100positioned in the passages (see FIGS. 167-168). A processor coupled tothe circuit board 7220 can access the memory 7133 of each connectorarrangement 7100 through a corresponding media reading interface 7230.

In general, each media reading interface 7230 is formed from one or morecontact members 7231 (see FIG. 160). For example, in certainimplementations, the media reading interface 7230 includes at least afirst contact member 7231 that transfers power, at least a secondcontact member 7231 that transfers data, and at least a third contactmember 7231 that provides grounding. In one implementation, the mediareading interface 7230 includes a fourth contact member. In otherimplementations, however, the media reading interface 7230 includegreater or fewer contact members 7231.

Each contact member 7231 includes a body defining a circumferential edge7244 extending between planar major sides 7245 (FIG. 168). In certainimplementations, the circumferential edge 7244 defines a contact surfaceof one or more contact sections as will be described herein. In someimplementations, the edge 7244 has a substantially continuous thickness.In various implementations, the thickness ranges from about 0.05 inchesto about 0.005 inches. In certain implementations, the thickness is lessthan about 0.02 inches. In some implementation, the thickness is lessthan about 0.012 inches. In another implementation, the thickness isabout 0.01 inches. In another implementation, the thickness is about0.009 inches. In another implementation, the thickness is about 0.008inches. In another implementation, the thickness is about 0.007 inches.In another implementation, the thickness is about 0.006 inches. In otherimplementations, the thickness may vary across the body of the contactmember 7231.

In certain implementations, a top surface of the coupler housing 7210defines slots 7214 configured to receive the one or more contact members7231. At least a portion of each slot 7214 extends through the topsurface of the adapter 7210 to one of the passages. When a connector7110 with a storage device 7130 is inserted into one of the ports 7215of the coupler housing 7210, the contact pads 7132 of the storage device7130 are configured to align with the slots 7214 defined in the adapterhousing 7210. Accordingly, the contact members 7231 held within theslots 7214 align with the contact pads 7132 to connect the contact pads7132 to contact pads on the printed circuit board 7220 mounted to theadapter 7210.

In some implementations, each contact member 7231 is retained within aseparate slot 7214. For example, in the implementation shown in FIGS.158-168, each media reading interface 7230 includes four contact members7231 that are held in a set 7213 (FIG. 158) of four slots 7214 thatalign with four contact pads 7132 on a connector storage device 7130.The slots 7214 in each set 7213 are separated by intermediate walls 7216(FIG. 159). In other implementations, all of the contact members 7231 ina single media reading interface 7230 may be retained in a single slot7214 (e.g., see FIGS. 218-275 and the associated text).

As shown in FIG. 161, each set 7213 of slots 7214 accommodating onemedia reading interface 7230 has a width W20 and each slot 7214 has awidth W21. Intermediate walls 7216, which separate the slots 7214 ofeach set 7213, each have a width W22. In general, the width W20 of eachset 7213 of slots 7214 is smaller than the width of the key 7115 of aconnector positioned in the respective adapter port 7215. In someimplementations, the width W20 of each set 7213 of slots 7214 is lessthan 3.35 mm (0.13 inches). Indeed, in some implementations, the widthW20 of each set 7213 of slots 7214 is less than about 3.1 mm (0.12inches). In certain implementations, the width W20 of each set 7213 ofslots 7214 is no more than about 2.5 mm (0.10 inches). In one exampleimplementation, the width W20 of each set 7213 of slots 7214 is no morethan 2.2 mm (0.09 inches). In one example implementation, the width W20of each set 7213 of slots 7214 is about 2 mm (0.08 inches). In oneexample implementation, the width W20 of each set 7213 of slots 7214 isabout 2.1 mm (0.081 inches).

In certain implementations, the width W22 of the intermediate walls 7216is smaller than the width W21 of the slots 7214. In someimplementations, the width W21 of each slot 7214 is within the range ofabout 0.25 mm (0.010 inches) to about 0.64 mm (0.025 inches). Indeed, insome implementations, the width W21 of each slot 7214 is within therange of about 0.25 mm (0.010 inches) to about 0.48 mm (0.019 inches).In one implementation, the width W21 of each slot 7214 is about0.43-0.44 mm (0.017 inches). In one implementation, the width W21 ofeach slot 7214 is about 0.41-0.42 mm (0.016 inches). In oneimplementation, the width W21 of each slot 7214 is about 0.45-0.46 mm(0.018 inches). In one implementation, the width W21 of each slot 7214is about 0.3 mm (0.012 inches). In one implementation, the width W21 ofeach slot 7214 is about 0.28 mm (0.011 inches). In one implementation,the width W21 of each slot 7214 is about 0.33 mm (0.013 inches).

In some implementations, the width W22 of each intermediate wall 7216 iswithin the range of about 0.13 mm (0.005) inches to about 0.38 mm (0.015inches). In one implementation, the width W21 of each intermediate wall7216 is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches). In one implementation, the widthW22 of each intermediate wall 7216 is about 0.28 mm (0.011 inches). Inone implementation, the width W22 of each intermediate wall 7216 isabout 0.28 mm (0.011 inches). In one implementation, the width W22 ofeach intermediate wall 7216 is about 0.33 mm (0.013 inches). In oneimplementation, the width W22 of each intermediate wall 7216 is about0.25 mm (0.010 inches). In certain implementations, the width W22 ofeach intermediate wall 7216 is within the range of about 0.13 mm (0.005)inches to about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches). In one implementation, the widthW22 of each intermediate wall 7216 is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches).

The adapter housing 7210 defines a sufficient number of slots 7214 toaccommodate the contact members 7231 of the media reading interfaces7230 installed at the adapter 7210. In some implementations, the adapter7210 includes at least one set 7213 of forward slots 7214 and at leastone set 7213 of rearward slots 7214. In the example shown in FIG. 158,the slots 7214 defined at front ports 7215 of the adapter passagesaxially align with slots 7214 defined at the rear ports 7215. In otherimplementations, however, the slots 7214 at the front ports 7215 may bestaggered from the slots 7214 at the rear ports 7215.

In some implementations, the contact members 7231 of a single mediareading interface 7230 are positioned in a staggered configuration withat least one of the contact members 7231 being axially forward orrearward of at least another of the contact members 7231 (see FIG. 161).In some implementations, the slots 7214 accommodating the staggeredcontact members 7231 also are staggered. For example, as shown in FIGS.158, alternating slots 7214 can be staggered in a front to reardirection. In other implementations, however, the slots 7214accommodating the staggered contacts 7231 may each have a common lengththat is longer than a length of the staggered arrangement of contactmembers 7231. In still other implementations, the front and rear ends ofthe contact members 7231 of a single media reading interface 7230 aretransversely aligned within similarly transversely aligned slots 7214.

As shown in FIG. 159, at least one support wall 7205 separates theforward slots 7214 from the rearward slots 7214. Each support wall 7205extends from the slotted top surface 7212 of the adapter housing 7210the passages. In some implementations, a single support wall 7205extends along a center of the adapter housing 7210. In otherimplementations, one or more support walls 7205 may extend between slots7214 arranged in a staggered configuration. In certain implementations,the support walls 7205 may connect to or be continuous with theintermediate walls 7216. In some implementations, the support wall 7205of the adapter housing 7210 defines a recess or channel 7208 and anextension 7207 (FIG. 159). In some implementations, a support portion7209 (FIGS. 159) of the adapter housing 7210 projects partially intoeach passages opposite the support wall 7205. The support portion 7209defines a ledge 7219 recessed within each slot 7214.

One example type of contact member 7231 is shown in FIGS. 159-160. Eachcontact member 7231 includes at least two contact sections definingcontact surfaces. One of the contact sections contacts the printedcircuit board 7220 and the other contact section contacts the storagedevice 7130 on a corresponding connector arrangement 7100. The examplecontact member 7231 is configured to seat in one of the slots 7214 ofthe adapter housing 7210. For example, the contact member 7231 includesa base 7232 that is configured to abut the support wall 7205 of theadapter housing 7210. In one implementation, the side of the base 7232that abuts the support wall 7205 is flat. In another implementation, theside of the base 7232 that abuts the support wall 7205 defines one ormore notches.

The base 7232 defines an attachment section 7238 that engages a portionof the support wall 7205 to secure the contact member 7231 within theslot 7214. In one implementation, the attachment section 7238 isconfigured to snap-fit into the support wall 7205. In otherimplementations, the attachment section 7238 may otherwise mount to thesupport wall 7205. In some implementations, the attachment section 7238of the contact member 7231 includes a first leg 7241 and a second leg7243 extending from the base 7232. When the attachment section 7238 ismounted to the support wall 7205, the first leg 7241 fits in the recess7208 and the second leg 7243 seats on the extension 7207. In oneimplementation, the first leg 7241 defines a bump 7242 to further securethe first leg 7241 in the recess 7208.

In accordance with some aspects, the media reading interfaces 7230 areconfigured to detect when a connector arrangement 7100 is inserted intoone of the adapter ports 7215. The media reading interfaces 7230 canfunction as presence detection sensors or trigger switches. In someimplementations, the contact members 7231 of a media reading interface7230 are configured to form a complete circuit between the circuit board7220 and the connector storage devices 7130 only when a connectorarrangement 7110 is received at the adapter 7210. For example, at leasta portion of each contact member 7231 may be configured to contact thecircuit board 7220 only after being pushed toward the circuit board 7220by a portion of a connector arrangement 7100. In other exampleimplementations, portions of the contact members 7231 can be configuredto complete a circuit until pushed away from the circuit board 7220 or ashorting rod by a connector arrangement 7100. In accordance with otheraspects, however, some implementations of the contact members 7231 maybe configured to form a complete circuit with the circuit board 7220regardless of whether a connector arrangement 7100 is received at theadapter 7210.

In the example shown in FIGS. 156-168, each contact member 7231 includesat least three moveable (e.g., flexible) contact sections 7233, 7235,and 7236 defining contact surfaces. The flexibility of the contactsections provides tolerance for differences in spacing between thecontact member 7231 and the respective printed circuit board 7220 whenthe coupler assembly 7200 is manufactured. Certain types of contactmembers 7231 also include at least one stationary contact 7237 having acontact surface that contacts the circuit board 7220. In the exampleshown, the stationary contact 7237 is defined at an end 7237 of the base7232. In one implementation, the first contact section 7233 and/or thestationary contact 7237 may provide grounding for the contact member7231 through the circuit board 7220.

The first moveable contact section 7233 is configured to extend throughthe slot 7214 and engage the circuit board 7220. The first stationarycontact 7237 also is configured to extend through the slot 7214 toengage the circuit board 4220. The ability of the first contact section7233 to flex relative to the stationary contact 7237 provides tolerancefor placement of the contact member 7231 relative to the circuit board7220. The second moveable contact section 7235 is configured to extendinto a respective one of the passages and to engage the connectorarrangement 4100 positioned in the passage. If a storage device 7130 isinstalled on the connector arrangement 7100, then the second contactsurface 7235 is configured to engage the contact pads 7132 of thestorage device 7130.

The third moveable contact surface 7236 is configured to selectivelyextend through the slot 7214 and engage the circuit board 7220. Forexample, the third contact surface 7236 may be configured to engage thecircuit board 7220 when a connector arrangement 7100 is received at aport 7215 corresponding with the respective media reading interface7230. The example contact member 7231 also includes a resilient section7234 that biases the third contact surface 7236 upwardly through theslot 7214 (e.g., toward the circuit board 7220). In someimplementations, the resilient section 7234 defines at least a partialarc.

In the implementation shown in FIG. 160, the resilient section 7234includes three springs 7246, 7247, and 7248. In the example shown, eachspring 7246, 7247, 7248 is football-shaped. In other implementations,however, the springs 7246-7248 may have any suitable shape. In certainimplementations, one or more of the springs 7246-7248 may be shapeddifferently than the other springs. The first spring 7246 is connectedto the base 7232 and the first contact section 7233 of the contactmember 7231 via the second spring 7247. The first spring 7246 isconnected to the third contact section 7236 of the contact member 7231via the third spring 7248. In some implementations, the second and thirdsprings 7247, 7248 are smaller than the first spring 7246. In otherimplementations, the resilient section 7234 may include greater or fewersprings.

At least the first spring 7246 is configured to deflect or flex when thefront surface 7118 of the key 7115 of a connector arrangement 7100pushes against the second contact section 7235 when the connectorarrangement 7100 is inserted into a port 7215. In the example shown, thefirst spring 7246 flexes when deflected by the key 7115. For example,the first spring 7246 flexes when the deflecting surface 7118 pushesagainst an outer surface of the first spring 7246. In someimplementations, outer surface of the first spring 7246 defines thesecond contact surface 7235. The resilient section 7234 is configured totransfer the force applied to the second contact section 7235 to thethird contact section 7236. For example, in some implementations, theresilient section 7234 is configured to lift the third contact section7236 to swipe the contact surface of the third contact section 7236against the printed circuit board 7220 (see FIG. 166).

FIG. 162 is a top plan view of an adapter assembly 7200 having twoconnector arrangements 7100 received at the right side of an adapter7210, a connector arrangement 7100A partially received at the left sideof the adapter 7210, and another connector arrangement 7100B fullyreceived at the left side of the adapter 7210. FIGS. 163 and 165 arecross-sectional views showing the partially received connectorarrangement 7100A and the fully received connector arrangement 7100B.FIGS. 164 and 166 are enlarged views of portions of FIGS. 163 and 165,respectively.

As shown in FIGS. 163-164, the third contact section 7236 seats on theledge 7219 of the adapter 7210 when a connector arrangement 7100 is notpositioned within a respective port 7215. A contact surface of the thirdcontact section 7236 is located spaced from the circuit board 7220 whenthe third contact section 7236 seats on the ledge 7219. As shown inFIGS. 165-166, inserting a connector arrangement 7100 into the port 7215biases the third contact section 7236 upwardly from the ledge 7219toward the circuit board 7220. In certain implementations, biasing thethird contact section 7236 upwardly causes the contact surface of thethird contact section 7236 to engage (e.g., touch or slide against) thecircuit board 7220.

In some implementations, each contact member 7231 extends between afirst end and a second end. For example, the base 7232 may define afirst end of the contact member 7231 and the third contact section 7236may define a second end of the contact member 7231. The contact member7231 also extends between a top and a bottom. For example, the first andthird contact sections 7233, 7236 may extend towards the top of thecontact member 7231 and the second contact section 7235 may extendtowards the bottom of the contact member 7231. As used herein, the terms“top” and “bottom” are not meant to imply a proper orientation of thecontact member 7231 or that the top of the contact member 7231 must belocated above the bottom of the connector 7231. Rather, the terms areused for ease in understanding and are assigned relative to the viewingplane of FIG. 159.

Portions of the planar surfaces 7245 of the contact member 7231 mayincrease and/or decrease in width. For example, in the example shown inFIG. 168, the base 7232 is wider than each of the contact sections 7233,7235, and 7236. Portions of the resilient section 7234, such as wherethe springs 7246, 7247, 7248 meet, are wider than the contact sections7233, 7235, 7236 or other portions of the springs 7246-7248. In certainimplementations, each of the contact surfaces of the contact sections7233, 7235, 7236 are rounded or otherwise contoured. For example, thefirst and third contact sections 7233, 7236 may define bulbous tips andthe second contact section 7235 may define an arc (see FIG. 168).

In one implementation, the contact member 7231 is formed monolithically(e.g., from a continuous sheet of metal or other material). For example,in some implementations, the contact member 7231 may be manufactured bycutting a planar sheet of metal or other material. In otherimplementations, the contact member 7231 may be manufactured by etchinga planar sheet of metal or other material. In other implementations, thecontact member 7231 may be manufactured by laser trimming a planar sheetof metal or other material. In still other implementations, the contactmember 7231 may be manufactured by stamping a planar sheet of metal orother material.

In some implementations, the adapter 7210 can include a media readinginterface 7230 associated with each passage. For example, the quadruplexadapter 7210 shown in FIG. 158 includes a first media reading interface7230A at the rear port 7215 of a first passage and a second mediareading interface 7230B at the front port 7215 of a second passage tointerface with two duplex fiber optic connector arrangements 7100received thereat. The quadruplex adapter 7210 also includes a thirdmedia reading interface 7230C at the rear port 7215 of a third passageand a fourth media reading interface 7230D at the front port 7215 of afourth passage to interface with another two duplex fiber opticconnector arrangements 7100 received thereat.

In another implementation, the adapter 7210 can include a media readinginterface 7230 associated with each port 7215. In still otherimplementations, a different number of media reading interfaces 7230 maybe provided at the front and rear of the adapter 7210. For example, oneside of the adapter housing 7210 can include two media readinginterfaces 7230 to interface with two duplex fiber optic connectorarrangements 7100 and another side of the adapter housing 7210 caninclude four media reading interfaces 7230 to interface with fourseparate fiber optic connectors. In other implementations, the adapterhousing 7210 can include any desired combination of front and rear mediareading interfaces 7230.

In some implementations, the adapter housing 7210 has more sets 7213 ofslots 7214 than media reading interfaces 7230. In other implementations,however, the adapter housing 7210 may have the same number of slot sets7213 and media reading interfaces 7230. In certain implementations, eachadapter housing 7210 defines a set 7213 of slots 7214 at each port 7215of each passage. In other implementations, each adapter housing 7210 maydefine a set 7213 of slots 7214 at only one port 7215 of each passage.In other implementations, the adapter housing 7210 may define a set 7213of slots 7214 at each port 7215 of alternate passages.

FIGS. 169-181 illustrate another example implementation of a connectorsystem 8000 that can be utilized on a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel) having PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality. The connector system 8000 includes at least one examplecommunications coupler assembly 8200 and at least two connectorarrangements 8100. In the example shown, the communications couplerassembly 8200 is configured to receive four connector arrangements 8100.

The communications coupler assembly 8200 is configured to be mounted toa connector assembly, such as a communications blade or a communicationspanel. One or more connector arrangements 8100, which terminate segmentsof communications media, are configured to communicatively couple toother segments of physical communications media at the coupler assembly8200 (e.g., see FIG. 178). Accordingly, communications data signalscarried by a media segment terminated by a first connector arrangement8100 can be propagated to another media segment terminated by a secondconnector arrangement 8100 through the communications coupler assembly8200.

In some implementations, each connector arrangement 8100 defines aduplex fiber optic connector arrangement including two connectors, eachof which terminates an optical fiber. In the example shown, theconnector arrangements 8100 are the same as connector arrangements 4100of FIGS. 103-111. In other implementations, however, the connectorarrangements 8100 may include an SC-type connector arrangement, anST-type connector arrangement, an FC-type connector arrangement, anMPO-type connector arrangement, an LX.5-type connector arrangement, orany other type of connector arrangement.

In accordance with some aspects, each communications coupler assembly8200 is configured to form a single link between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, each communications coupler assembly8200 can define a single passage at which a first connector arrangementis coupled to a second connector arrangement. In accordance with otheraspects, however, each communications coupler assembly 8200 isconfigured to form two or more links between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 169, thecommunications coupler assembly 8200 defines four passages.

In some implementations, each passage of the communications couplerassembly 8200 is configured to form a single link between first andsecond connector arrangements 8100. In particular, each passage has aforward port 8215 at which a first connector 8110 is received and arearward port 8215 at which a second connector 8110 is received. A splitsleeve 8206 is positioned within the passage between the forward andrearward ports 8215 to align the ferrules 8112 of the connectors 8110.In other example implementations, two or more passages can form a singlelink between connector arrangements 8100 (e.g., two ports 8215 can forma link between duplex connector arrangements). In still other exampleimplementations, each communications coupler assembly 8200 can form aone-to-many link. For example, the communications coupler assembly 8200can connect a duplex connector arrangement 8100 to two monoplex (i.e.,simplex) connectors 8110.

One example implementation of a connector arrangement 8100 is shown inFIG. 169. Each connector arrangements 8100 includes one or more fiberoptic connectors 8110, each of which terminates one or more opticalfibers. In the example shown, each connector arrangement 8100 defines aduplex fiber optic connector arrangement including two fiber opticconnectors 8110 held together using a clip 8150. In another exampleimplementation, a connector arrangement 8100 can define a single fiberoptic connector 8110. As shown, each fiber optic connector 8110 includesa connector body protecting a ferrule 8112 that retains an opticalfiber. The connector body is secured to a boot for providing bendprotection to the optical fiber. In the example shown, the connector isan LC-type fiber optic connector. The connector body includes afastening member (e.g., clip arm) that facilitates retaining the fiberoptic connector within a port 8215 in the communications couplerassembly 8200.

Each connector arrangement 8100 is configured to store physical layerinformation. For example, a storage device 8130 may be installed on orin the body of one or more of the fiber optic connectors of eachconnector arrangement 8100. In the example shown, the storage device8130 is installed on only one fiber optic connector 8110 of a duplexconnector arrangement 8100. In other implementations, however, a storagedevice 8130 may be installed on each fiber optic connector 8110 of aconnector arrangement 8100. In the example shown, the storage device8130 is located within a key 8115 of each connector 8110. In otherimplementations, the storage device 8130 may be located at anotherposition on or in the connector arrangement 8100.

One example storage device 8130 includes a printed circuit board 8131 onwhich memory circuitry can be arranged (see FIG. 170). Electricalcontacts 8132 also are arranged on the printed circuit board 8131 forinteraction with a media reading interface of the communications couplerassembly 8200 (described in more detail herein). Any of theimplementations of electrical contacts 8132 disclosed herein aresuitable for use in the storage device 8130. In one exampleimplementation, the storage device 8130 includes an EEPROM circuit 8133(FIG. 181) arranged on the printed circuit board 8131. In the exampleshown in FIG. 169, an EEPROM circuit 8133 is arranged on the non-visibleside of the circuit board 8131. In other implementations, however, thestorage device 8130 can include any suitable type of non-volatilememory.

FIGS. 171-174 show one example implementation of a communicationscoupler assembly 8200 implemented as a fiber optic adapter. The examplecommunications coupler assembly 8200 includes an adapter housing 8210configured to align and interface two or more fiber optic connectorarrangements 8100. In other example implementations, the adapter housing8210 may be configured to communicatively couple together a fiber opticconnector with a media converter (not shown) to convert the optical datasignals into electrical data signals, wireless data signals, or othersuch data signals. In still other implementations, the communicationscoupler assembly 8200 can include an electrical termination block thatis configured to receive punch-down wires, electrical plugs (e.g., forelectrical jacks), or other types of electrical connectors.

The example adapter housing 8210 is formed from opposing sides 8211interconnected by first and second ends 8212 (FIG. 171). The sides 8211and ends 8212 each extend between a front and a rear. The adapterhousing 8210 defines one or more passages extending between the frontand rear ends. Each end of each passage defines a port 8215 configuredto receive a connector arrangement or portion thereof (e.g., one fiberoptic connector of duplex connector arrangement 8100 of FIG. 169). Inthe example shown, the adapter housing 8210 defines four passages andeight ports 8215. In other implementations, however, the adapter housing8210 may define one, two, three, six, eight, ten, twelve, sixteen, oreven more passages.

In certain implementations, the adapter housing 8210 also defines latchengagement channel 8217 (FIG. 171) at each port 8215 to facilitateretention of the latch arms of the fiber optic connectors. Each latchengagement channel 8217 is sized and shaped to receive the key or keys8115 of the connector arrangement 8100. Sleeves (e.g., split sleeves)8206 are positioned within the passages to receive and align theferrules 8112 of fiber optic connectors (see FIG. 172).

As shown in FIGS. 169 and 175, a printed circuit board 8220 isconfigured to be secured (e.g., via fasteners 8222) to the adapterhousing 8210. In some implementations, the example adapter housing 8210includes two annular walls in which the fasteners 8222 can be insertedto hold the printed circuit board 8220 to the adapter housing 8210.Non-limiting examples of suitable fasteners 8222 include screws, snaps,and rivets. For ease in understanding, only a portion of the printedcircuit board 8220 is shown in FIGS. 169 and 175. It is to be understoodthat the printed circuit board 8220 electrically connects to a dataprocessor and/or to a network interface (e.g., the processor 217 andnetwork interface 216 of FIG. 2). It is further to be understood thatmultiple communications coupler housings 8210 can be connected to theprinted circuit board 8220 within a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel).

The fiber optic adapter 8210 includes one or more media readinginterfaces 8230, each configured to connect the printed circuit board8220 to the storage devices 8130 of the fiber optic connectorarrangements 8100 plugged into the fiber optic adapter 8210. Each mediareading interface 8230 includes one or more contact pairs 8231 thatextend between the slotted surface 8212 of the adapter housing 8210 andthe passages extending through the adapter 8210. Portions of eachcontact pair 8231 engage contacts and tracings on the printed circuitboard 8220 mounted to the slotted surface 8212. Other portions of thecontact pairs 8231 engage the electrical contacts 8132 of the storagemembers 8130 attached to any connector arrangements 8100 positioned inthe passages (see FIGS. 180-181). A processor coupled to the circuitboard 8220 can access the memory 8133 of each connector arrangement 8100through a corresponding media reading interface 8230.

In accordance with some aspects, the media reading interfaces 8230 alsoare configured to detect when a connector arrangement 8100 is insertedinto one of the adapter ports 8215. The media reading interfaces 8230can function as presence detection sensors or trigger switches. In someimplementations, the media reading interface 8230 is configured to forma complete circuit between the circuit board 8220 and the connectorstorage devices 8130 only when a respective connector arrangement 8110is received at the adapter 8210. For example, at least a portion of eachmedia reading interface 8230 may be configured to contact the circuitboard 8220 only after being pushed toward the circuit board 8220 by aportion of a connector arrangement 8100. In other exampleimplementations, portions of the media reading interface 8230 can beconfigured to complete a circuit until pushed away from the circuitboard 8220 or a shorting rod by a connector arrangement 8100. Inaccordance with other aspects, however, some implementations of themedia reading interface 8230 may be configured to form a completecircuit with the circuit board 8220 regardless of whether a connectorarrangement 8100 is received at the adapter 8210.

In general, each media reading interface 8230 is formed from one or morecontact pairs 8231 (see FIG. 171-173). In certain implementations, themedia reading interface 8230 includes at least a first contact pair 8231that transfers power, at least a second contact pair 8231 that transfersdata, and at least a third contact pair 8231 that provides grounding. Inone implementation, the media reading interface 8230 includes a fourthcontact pair. In other implementations, however, the media readinginterface 8230 include greater or fewer contact pairs 8231.

Each contact pair 8231 includes a first contact member 8240 and a secondcontact member 8245 that is configured to selectively contact the firstcontact member 8240. Each contact member 8240, 8245 includes a bodydefining a circumferential edge 8243, 8248, respectively, extendingbetween planar major sides 8244, 8249, respectively (see FIG. 181). Incertain implementations, the circumferential edges 8243, 8248 definecontact surfaces of two or more contact sections as will be describedherein.

In some implementations, the edges 8243, 8248 of the contact members8240, 8245 have substantially continuous thicknesses. In variousimplementations, the thickness of each edge 8243, 8248 ranges from about0.05 inches to about 0.005 inches. In certain implementations, thethickness is less than about 0.02 inches. In some implementation, thethickness is less than about 0.012 inches. In another implementation,the thickness is about 0.01 inches. In another implementation, thethickness is about 0.009 inches. In another implementation, thethickness is about 0.008 inches. In another implementation, thethickness is about 0.007 inches. In another implementation, thethickness is about 0.006 inches. In other implementations, the thicknessmay vary across the bodies of the contact members 8240, 8245.

In certain implementations, a top surface of the coupler housing 8210defines slots 8214 configured to receive the one or more contact pairs8231. At least a portion of each slot 8214 extends through the topsurface of the adapter 8210 to one of the passages. When a connector8110 with a storage device 8130 is inserted into one of the ports 8215of the coupler housing 8210, the contact pads 8132 of the storage device8130 are configured to align with the slots 8214 defined in the adapterhousing 8210.

Accordingly, the contact members 8240, 8245 held within the slots 8214align with the contact pads 8132 to connect the contact pads 8132 tocontact pads on the printed circuit board 8220 mounted to the adapter8210.

In some implementations, each contact pair 8231 is retained within aseparate slot 8214. For example, in the implementation shown in FIGS.171-181, each media reading interface 8230 includes four contact pairs8231 that are held in a set 8213 (FIG. 171) of four slots 8214 thatalign with four contact pads 8132 on a connector storage device 8130.The slots 8214 in each set 8213 are separated by intermediate walls 8216(FIG. 172). In other implementations, all of the contact pairs 8231 in asingle media reading interface 8230 may be retained in a single slot8214 (e.g., see FIGS. 218-275 and the associated text).

In general, the width of each set 8213 of slots 8214 is smaller than thewidth of the key 8115 of a connector 8110 positioned in the respectiveadapter port 8215. In some implementations, the width of each set 8213of slots 8214 is less than 3.35 mm (0.13 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the width of each set 8213 of slots 8214 is less thanabout 3.1 mm (0.12 inches). In certain implementations, the width ofeach set 8213 of slots 8214 is no more than about 2.5 mm (0.10 inches).In one example implementation, the width of each set 8213 of slots 8214is no more than 2.2 mm (0.09 inches).

In certain implementations, the width of the intermediate walls 8216 issmaller than the width of the slots 8214. In some implementations, thewidth of each slot 8214 is within the range of about 0.25 mm (0.010inches) to about 0.64 mm (0.025 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the width of each slot 8214 is within the range ofabout 0.38 mm (0.015 inches) to about 0.48 mm (0.019 inches). In oneimplementation, the width of each slot 8214 is about 0.43-0.44 mm (0.017inches). In one implementation, the width of each slot 8214 is about0.41-0.42 mm (0.016 inches). In one implementation, the width of eachslot 8214 is about 0.45-0.46 mm (0.018 inches). In some implementations,the width of each intermediate wall 8216 is within the range of about0.13 mm (0.005) inches to about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches). In oneimplementation, the width of each intermediate wall 8216 is about 0.15mm (0.006 inches).

The adapter housing 8210 defines a sufficient number of slots 8214 toaccommodate the contact members 8231 of the media reading interfaces8230 installed at the adapter 8210. In some implementations, the adapter8210 includes at least one set 8213 of forward slots 8214 and at leastone set 8213 of rearward slots 8214. In the example shown in FIG. 171,the slots 8214 defined at front ports 8215 of the adapter passagesaxially align with slots 8214 defined at the rear ports 8215. In otherimplementations, however, the slots 8214 at the front ports 8215 may bestaggered from the slots 8214 at the rear ports 8215.

In some implementations, the adapter 8210 can include a media readinginterface 8230 associated with each passage. For example, the quadruplexadapter 8210 shown in FIG. 171 includes a first media reading interface8230A at the rear port 8215 of a first passage and a second mediareading interface 8230B at the front port 8215 of a second passage tointerface with two duplex fiber optic connector arrangements 8100received thereat. The quadruplex adapter 8210 also includes a thirdmedia reading interface 8230C at the rear port 8215 of a third passageand a fourth media reading interface 8230D at the front port 8215 of afourth passage to interface with another two duplex fiber opticconnector arrangements 8100 received thereat.

In another implementation, the adapter 8210 can include a media readinginterface 8230 associated with each port 8215. In still otherimplementations, a different number of media reading interfaces 8230 maybe provided at the front and rear of the adapter 8210. For example, oneside of the adapter housing 8210 can include two media readinginterfaces 8230 to interface with two duplex fiber optic connectorarrangements 8100 and another side of the adapter housing 8210 caninclude four media reading interfaces 8230 to interface with fourseparate fiber optic connectors. In other implementations, the adapterhousing 8210 can include any desired combination of front and rear mediareading interfaces 8230.

In some implementations, the adapter housing 8210 has more sets 8213 ofslots 8214 than media reading interfaces 8230. In other implementations,however, the adapter housing 8210 may have the same number of slot sets8213 and media reading interfaces 8230. In certain implementations, eachadapter housing 8210 defines a set 8213 of slots 8214 at each port 8215of each passage. In other implementations, each adapter housing 8210 maydefine a set 8213 of slots 8214 at only one port 8215 of each passage.In other implementations, the adapter housing 8210 may define a set 8213of slots 8214 at each port 8215 of alternate passages.

In some implementations, the contact pairs 8231 of a single mediareading interface 8230 are positioned in a staggered configuration withat least one of the contact pairs 8231 being axially forward or rearwardof at least another of the contact pairs 8231 (see FIG. 174). In someimplementations, the slots 8214 accommodating the staggered contactmembers 8231 also are staggered. For example, as shown in FIGS. 171,alternating slots 8214 can be staggered in a front to rear direction. Inother implementations, however, the slots 8214 accommodating thestaggered contacts 8231 may each have a common length that is longerthan a length of the staggered arrangement of contact members 8231. Instill other implementations, the front and rear ends of the contactmembers 8231 of a single media reading interface 8230 are transverselyaligned within similarly transversely aligned slots 8214.

As shown in FIG. 172, at least one support wall 8205 separates theforward slots 8214 from the rearward slots 8214. Each support wall 8205extends from the slotted top surface 8212 of the adapter housing 8210the passages. In some implementations, a single support wall 8205extends along a center of the adapter housing 8210. In otherimplementations, one or more support walls 8205 may extend between slots8214 arranged in a staggered configuration. In certain implementations,the support walls 8205 may connect to or be continuous with theintermediate walls 8216. In some implementations, the support wall 8205of the adapter housing 8210 defines a first mounting location 8207. Insome implementations, a second mounting location 8209 extends partiallyinto each slot 8214 opposite the support wall 8205.

One example type of contact pair 8231 is shown in FIGS. 172-173. Eachcontact pair 8231 includes a first contact member 8240 configured to bepositioned at the first mounting location 8207 and a second contactmember 8245 configured to be positioned at the second mounting location8209. In some implementations, each contact member 8240, 8245 of thecontact pair 8231 has a base portion 8241, 8246 that engages a lug atthe respective mounting location 8207, 8209 of the support wall 8205 tosecure the contact member 8240, 8245 within the slot 8214. In oneimplementation, the base portions 8241, 8246 are configured to snap-fitover the lugs at the mounting locations 8207, 8209. In otherimplementations, the base portions 8241, 8246 may otherwise mount to thesupport wall 8205. In the example shown, the base portions 8241, 8246have generally U-shaped transverse cross-sections. In otherimplementations, the base portions 8241, 8246 have differentconfigurations.

In the example shown in FIGS. 173-174, each contact pair 8231 includesat least four moveable (e.g., flexible) contact sections 8233, 8235,8236, and 8238 defining contact surfaces. The flexibility of the contactsections provides tolerance for differences in spacing between thecontact pair 8231 and the respective printed circuit board 8220 when thecoupler assembly 8200 is manufactured. Certain types of contact pairs8231 also include at least one stationary contact 8237 having a contactsurface that contacts the circuit board 8220. In the example shown, atop of each base portion 8241, 8246 defines a stationary contact 8237.

In general, the first moveable contact section 8233 is configured toextend through the slot 8214 and engage the circuit board 8220. Theability of the first contact section 8233 to flex relative to thestationary contact 8237 provides tolerance for placement of the contactpairs 8231 relative to the circuit board 8220. In one implementation,the first contact section 8233 and/or the stationary contacts 8237 mayprovide grounding for the contact pair 8231 through the circuit board8220.

The second moveable contact section 8235 is configured to extend into arespective one of the passages and to engage the connector arrangement8100 (e.g., a key 8115 of the connector arrangement) positioned in thepassage. If a storage device 8130 is installed on the connectorarrangement 8100, then the second contact surface 8235 is configured toengage the contact pads 8132 of the storage device 8130.

Data may be transferred from the storage device 8130 to the circuitboard 8220 when the contact members 8240, 8245 complete a circuitbetween the storage device 8130 and the circuit board 8220. The circuitis complete when the third moveable contact section 8236 extends throughthe slot 8214 and engages the circuit board 8220 and the fourth moveablecontact section 8238 completes a circuit between the contact members8240, 8245.

The third contact section 8236 and the fourth contact section 8238 maybe configured to move (e.g., lift) when a connector arrangement 8100 isreceived at a port 8215 corresponding with the respective media readinginterface 8230. For example, the third contact section 8236 may beconfigured to move upwardly when the front surface 8118 of the key 8115of a connector arrangement 8100 pushes against the second contactsection 8235 when the connector arrangement 8100 is inserted into a port8215. For example, in some implementations, the third contact section8236 is configured to swipe the contact surface of the third contactsection 8236 against the printed circuit board 8220 when lifted (seeFIGS. 178-179).

Insertion of the connector arrangement 8100 also may create a connectionbetween the contact members 8240, 8245 of the contact pair 8231. Forexample, deflection of the second contact surface 8235 may causemovement of one of the contact members 8240, 8245 towards the other ofthe contact members 8240, 8245. In one implementation, one of thecontact members 8240, 8245 defines the fourth contact section 8238 thatmoves towards the other contact member 8240, 8245 when the connectorarrangement 8100 is received at the adapter 8210.

The example contact pair 8231 also may include a resilient section 8234that is configured to transfer the force applied to the second contactsection 8235 to the third contact section 8236 and/or the fourth contactsection 8238. In certain implementations, the resilient section 8234 isconfigured to amplify the force applied to the second contact section8235. In some implementations, the resilient section 8234 defines atleast a partial arc. For example, in the implementation shown in FIG.173, the resilient section 8234 defines a partial circle. In otherimplementations, the resilient section 8234 may define a series ofcurves, folds, and/or bends.

In some implementations, the first contact member 8240 defines thesecond contact section 8235, the third contact section 8236, and thefourth contact section 8238. The second contact member 8245 defines thefirst contact section 8233. In other implementations, the second contactmember 8245 may define the second, third, or fourth contact sections8235, 8236, 8238. In still other implementations, both contact members8240, 8245 may define part of the fourth contact section 8238.

In the example shown, the first contact member 8240 includes an arm 8242extending from the base portion 8241. A first leg extends partiallyupwardly from the arm 8242 to define the third contact section 8236. Asecond leg extends generally sideways from the arm 8242 to define thefourth contact section 8238. A third leg extends partially downwardlyfrom the arm 8242 to define the resilient section 8234 and the secondcontact section 8235. The second contact member 8245 includes an arm8247 extending from the base portion 8246. The arm 8247 contoursupwardly to define the first contact section 8233. The arm 8247 is sizedand shaped to enable selective engagement with the fourth contactsection 8238.

In some implementations, each contact member 8240, 8245 extends betweena first end and a second end. For example, the base 8241 may define afirst end of the first contact member 8240 and the fourth contactsection 8238 may define a second end of the first contact member 8240.The base 8246 may define a first end of the second contact member 8245and the first contact section 8233 may define the second end of thesecond contact member 8240. In some implementations, the contact pairs8231 are arranged so that the bases 8241, 8246 of the contact members8240, 8245 are arranged on opposite sides of the contact pair 8231.

The contact pairs 8231 also extend between a top and a bottom. Forexample, the first and third contact sections 8233, 8236 may extendtowards the top of the contact pair 8231 and the second contact section8235 may extend towards the bottom of the contact member 8231. As usedherein, the terms “top” and “bottom” are not meant to imply a properorientation of the contact pair 8231 or that the top of the contact pair8231 must be located above the bottom of the contact pair 8231. Rather,the terms are used for ease in understanding and are assigned relativeto the viewing plane of FIG. 173.

Portions of the planar surfaces 8243, 8248 of the contact members 8240,8245 may increase and/or decrease in width. For example, in the exampleshown in FIG. 173, the tops of the base portions 8241, 8246 are widerthan the arms 8242, 8247 of each contact member 8240, 8245. In certainimplementations, one or more of the contact surfaces of the contactsections 8233, 8235, 8236, 8238 may be rounded or otherwise contoured.For example, the first, third, and fourth contact sections 8233, 8236,8238, respectively, may define bulbous tips and the second contactsection 8235 may define an arc (see FIG. 173).

In one implementation, each contact member 8240, 8245 is formedmonolithically (e.g., from a continuous sheet of metal or othermaterial). For example, in some implementations, each contact member8240, 8245 may be manufactured by cutting a planar sheet of metal orother material. In other implementations, each contact member 8240, 8245may be manufactured by etching a planar sheet of metal or othermaterial. In other implementations, each contact member 8240, 8245 maybe manufactured by laser trimming a planar sheet of metal or othermaterial. In still other implementations, each contact member 8240, 8245may be manufactured by stamping a planar sheet of metal or othermaterial.

FIG. 175 is a top plan view of an adapter assembly 8200 having twoconnector arrangements 8100 received at the right side of an adapter8210, a connector arrangement 8100A partially received at the left sideof the adapter 8210, and another connector arrangement 8100B fullyreceived at the left side of the adapter 8210. FIGS. 176 and 178 arecross-sectional views showing the partially received connectorarrangement 8100A and the fully received connector arrangement 8100B,respectively. FIGS. 177 and 179 are enlarged views of portions of FIGS.176 and 178, respectively.

As shown in FIGS. 176-177, the first contact section 8233 engages thecircuit board 8220 and the third contact section 8236 is located spacedfrom the circuit board 8220 when a connector arrangement 8100 is notpositioned within a respective port 8215. In some implementations, thefourth contact section 8238 engages the second contact member 8245 whena connector arrangement 8100 is not positioned within a respective port8215 (see FIG. 177). In other implementations, however, the fourthcontact section 8238 does not engage the second contact member 8245 whena connector arrangement 8100 is not positioned within a respective port8215 (see FIG. 173). The second contact section 8235 is positioned belowthe intermediate wall 8216.

As shown in FIGS. 178-179, inserting a connector arrangement 8100 intothe port 8215 biases the third contact section 8236 upwardly toward thecircuit board 8220. In certain implementations, biasing the thirdcontact section 8236 upwardly causes the contact surface of the thirdcontact section 8236 to engage (e.g., touch or slide against) thecircuit board 8220. In some implementations, inserting the connectorarrangement 8100 also may bias the fourth contact section 8238 intoengagement with the arm 8247 of the second contact member 8245. In otherimplementations, inserting the connector arrangement 8100 may increasethe force of engagement between the fourth contact section 8238 and thearm 8247.

FIGS. 182-199 illustrate another example implementation of a connectorsystem 8300 that can be utilized on a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel) having PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality. The connector system 8300 includes at least one examplecommunications coupler assembly 8500 and at least two connectorarrangements 8400. In the example shown, the communications couplerassembly 8500 is configured to receive four connector arrangements 8400.In other implementations, the communications coupler assembly 8500 maybe configured to receive any desired number of connector arrangements8400.

The communications coupler assembly 8500 is configured to be mounted toa connector assembly, such as a communications blade or a communicationspanel. One or more connector arrangements 8400, which terminate segmentsof communications media, are configured to communicatively couple toother segments of physical communications media at the coupler assembly8500 (e.g., see FIG. 192). Accordingly, communications data signalscarried by a media segment terminated by a first connector arrangement8400 can be propagated to another media segment terminated by a secondconnector arrangement 8400 through the communications coupler assembly8500.

In some implementations, each connector arrangement 8400 defines aduplex fiber optic connector arrangement including two connectors, eachof which terminates an optical fiber. In the example shown, theconnector arrangements 8400 are the same as connector arrangements 4100of FIGS. 103-111. In other implementations, however, the connectorarrangements 8400 may include an SC-type connector arrangement, anST-type connector arrangement, an FC-type connector arrangement, anMPO-type connector arrangement, an LX.5-type connector arrangement, orany other type of connector arrangement.

In accordance with some aspects, each communications coupler assembly8500 is configured to form a single link between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, each communications coupler assembly8500 can define a single passage at which a first connector arrangementis coupled to a second connector arrangement. In accordance with otheraspects, however, each communications coupler assembly 8500 isconfigured to form two or more links between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 184, thecommunications coupler assembly 8500 defines four passages.

In some implementations, each passage of the communications couplerassembly 8500 is configured to form a single link between first andsecond connector arrangements 8400. In particular, each passage has aforward port 8515 at which a first connector 8410 is received and arearward port 8515 at which a second connector 8410 is received. Asleeve 8506 is positioned within the passage between the forward andrearward ports 8515 to align the ferrules 8412 of the connectors 8410.In other example implementations, two or more passages can form a singlelink between connector arrangements 8400 (e.g., two ports 8515 can forma link between duplex connector arrangements). In still other exampleimplementations, each communications coupler assembly 8500 can form aone-to-many link. For example, the communications coupler assembly 8500can connect a duplex connector arrangement 8400 to two monoplex (i.e.,simplex) connectors 8410.

One example implementation of a connector arrangement 8400 is shown inFIG. 182. Each connector arrangements 8400 includes one or more fiberoptic connectors 8410, each of which terminates one or more opticalfibers. In the example shown, each connector arrangement 8400 defines aduplex fiber optic connector arrangement including two fiber opticconnectors 8410 held together using a clip 8450. In another exampleimplementation, a connector arrangement 8400 can define a single fiberoptic connector 8410. As shown, each fiber optic connector 8410 includesa connector body protecting a ferrule 8412 that retains an opticalfiber. The connector body is secured to a boot for providing bendprotection to the optical fiber. In the example shown, the connector isan LC-type fiber optic connector. The connector body includes afastening member (e.g., clip arm) that facilitates retaining the fiberoptic connector within a port 8515 in the communications couplerassembly 8500.

Each connector arrangement 8400 is configured to store physical layerinformation. For example, a storage device 8430 may be installed on orin the body of one or more of the fiber optic connectors of eachconnector arrangement 8400. In the example shown, the storage device8430 is installed on only one fiber optic connector 8410 of a duplexconnector arrangement 8400. In other implementations, however, a storagedevice 8430 may be installed on each fiber optic connector 8410 of aconnector arrangement 8400. In the example shown, the storage device8430 is located within a key 8415 of each connector 8410. In otherimplementations, the storage device 8430 may be located at anotherposition on or in the connector arrangement 8400.

One example storage device 8430 includes a printed circuit board 8431 onwhich memory circuitry can be arranged (see FIG. 195). Electricalcontacts 8432 (FIG. 183) also are arranged on the printed circuit board8431 for interaction with a media reading interface of thecommunications coupler assembly 8500 (described in more detail herein).Any of the implementations of electrical contacts 8432 disclosed hereinare suitable for use in the storage device 8430. In one exampleimplementation, the storage device 8430 includes an EEPROM circuit 8433(FIG. 195) arranged on the printed circuit board 8431. In the exampleshown in FIG. 182, an EEPROM circuit 8433 is arranged on the non-visibleside of the circuit board 8431. In other implementations, however, thestorage device 8430 can include any suitable type of non-volatilememory.

FIGS. 184-188 show one example implementation of a communicationscoupler assembly 8500 implemented as a fiber optic adapter. The examplecommunications coupler assembly 8500 includes an adapter housing 8510configured to align and interface two or more fiber optic connectorarrangements 8400. In other example implementations, the adapter housing8510 may be configured to communicatively couple together a fiber opticconnector with a media converter (not shown) to convert the optical datasignals into electrical data signals, wireless data signals, or othersuch data signals. In still other implementations, the communicationscoupler assembly 8500 can include an electrical termination block thatis configured to receive punch-down wires, electrical plugs (e.g., forelectrical jacks), or other types of electrical connectors.

The example adapter housing 8510 is formed from opposing sides 8511interconnected by first and second ends 8512 (FIG. 184). The sides 8511and ends 8512 each extend between a front and a rear. The adapterhousing 8510 defines one or more passages extending between the frontand rear ends. Each end of each passage defines a port 8515 configuredto receive a connector arrangement or portion thereof (e.g., one fiberoptic connector of duplex connector arrangement 8400 of FIG. 182). Inthe example shown, the adapter housing 8510 defines four passages andeight ports 8515. In other implementations, however, the adapter housing8510 may define one, two, three, six, eight, ten, twelve, sixteen, oreven more passages.

In certain implementations, the adapter housing 8510 also defines latchengagement channel 8517 (FIG. 184) at each port 8515 to facilitateretention of the latch arms of the fiber optic connectors 8410. Eachlatch engagement channel 8517 is sized and shaped to receive the key orkeys 8415 of the connector arrangement 8400. Sleeves (e.g., splitsleeves) 8506 are positioned within the passages to receive and alignthe ferrules 8412 of fiber optic connectors (see FIG. 186).

As shown in FIGS. 182 and 189, a printed circuit board 8520 isconfigured to be secured (e.g., via fasteners 8522) to the adapterhousing 8510. In some implementations, the example adapter housing 8510includes two annular walls in which the fasteners 8522 can be insertedto hold the printed circuit board 8520 to the adapter housing 8510.Non-limiting examples of suitable fasteners 8522 include screws, snaps,and rivets. For ease in understanding, only a portion of the printedcircuit board 8520 is shown in FIGS. 182 and 189. It is to be understoodthat the printed circuit board 8520 electrically connects to a dataprocessor and/or to a network interface (e.g., the processor 217 andnetwork interface 216 of FIG. 2). It is further to be understood thatmultiple communications coupler housings 8510 can be connected to theprinted circuit board 8520 within a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel).

The fiber optic adapter 8510 includes one or more media readinginterfaces 8530, each configured to connect the printed circuit board8520 to the storage devices 8430 of the fiber optic connectorarrangements 8400 plugged into the fiber optic adapter 8510. Each mediareading interface 8530 includes one or more contact pairs 8531. Portionsof each contact pair 8531 engage contacts and tracings on the printedcircuit board 8520 mounted to the surface 8512. Other portions of thecontact pairs 8531 engage the electrical contacts 8432 of the storagemembers 8430 attached to any connector arrangements 8400 positioned inthe passages (see FIGS. 192-193). A processor coupled to the circuitboard 8520 can access the memory 8433 of each connector arrangement 8400through a corresponding media reading interface 8530.

In accordance with some aspects, the media reading interfaces 8530 alsoare configured to detect when a connector arrangement 8400 is insertedinto one of the adapter ports 8515. The media reading interfaces 8530can function as presence detection sensors or trigger switches. In someimplementations, the media reading interface 8530 is configured to forma complete circuit between the circuit board 8520 and the connectorstorage devices 8430 only when a respective connector arrangement 8410is received at the adapter 8510. For example, at least a portion of eachmedia reading interface 8530 may be configured to form a completecircuit with the circuit board 8520 only after being deflected or movedby a portion of a connector arrangement 8400. In other exampleimplementations, portions of the media reading interface 8530 can beconfigured to complete a circuit until pushed away from the circuitboard 8520 or a shorting rod by a connector arrangement 8400. Inaccordance with other aspects, however, some implementations of themedia reading interface 8530 may be configured to form a completecircuit with the circuit board 8520 regardless of whether a connectorarrangement 8400 is received at the adapter 8510.

Referring to FIGS. 185-189, each media reading interface 8530 is formedfrom one or more contact pairs 8531. In certain implementations, themedia reading interface 8530 includes at least a first contact pair 8531that transfers power, at least a second contact pair 8531 that transfersdata, and at least a third contact pair 8531 that provides grounding. Inone implementation, the media reading interface 8530 includes a fourthcontact pair 8531. In other implementations, however, the media readinginterface 8530 include greater or fewer contact pairs 8531.

Each contact pair 8531 includes a first contact member 8540 and a secondcontact member 8545 that is aligned with the first contact member 8540.In some implementations, each contact member 8540, 8545 is formed fromcoil stock or other such material. For example, in some implementations,each contact member 8540, 8545 may be manufactured by bending coil stocksprings. In certain implementations, each contact member 8540, 8545 isformed from round coil stock. In certain implementations, each contactmember 8540, 8545 is formed from square coil stock. In otherimplementations, each contact member 8540, 8545 is formed from anothertype of coil stock (e.g., coil stock having an ovoid, rectangular,triangular, or other shaped transverse cross-section).

As shown in FIG. 185, one or more contact pairs 8531 are positioned ontorods 8244, 8549 to align the contact pairs 8531 in a media readinginterface 8530. For example, the first contact members 8540 may bepositioned on a first rod 8544 and the second contact members 8545 maybe positioned on a second rod 8549. In certain implementations, thefirst rod 8544 extends parallel to the second rod 8549. When the contactpairs 8531 are positioned on the rods 8544, 8549, the media readinginterface 8530 may be positioned in the adapter 8510 as a modular unitas will be described in more detail herein.

FIGS. 186-187 illustrate one example implementation of a first contactmember 8540 of an example contact pair 8531. The first contact member8540 includes a loop section 8541 that is configured to be positionedaround the first rod 8544. A first arm 8542 extends from the loopsection 8541 to define a first contact section 8533 that is configuredto swipe, abut, or otherwise engage a contact pad or tracing on theprinted circuit board 8520. A second arm 8543 extends from the loopsection 8541 to define a second contact section 8535 that is configuredto swipe, abut, or otherwise engage a contact pad 8431 of a storagedevice 8430 of a connector arrangement 8400 received at the adapter8510. The second arm 8543 also defines a first engagement section 8538.

FIGS. 188-189 illustrate one example implementation of a second contactmember 8545 of an example contact pair 8531. The second contact member8545 includes a loop section 8546 that is configured to be positionedaround the second rod 8549. A first arm 8547 extends from the loopsection 8546 to define a third contact section 8536 that is configuredto swipe, abut, or otherwise engage a contact pad or tracing on theprinted circuit board 8520. A second arm 8548 extends from the loopsection 8546 to define a second engagement section 8539 that isconfigured to selectively touch the first engagement section 8538 of thefirst contact member 8540 of the pair 8531.

In some implementations, the contact members 8540, 8545 havesubstantially continuous thicknesses T5 (FIGS. 187 and 189). In variousimplementations, the thickness T5 ranges from about 0.05 inches (about1.27 mm) to about 0.005 inches (about 0.127 mm). In certainimplementations, the thickness T5 is less than about 0.02 inches (about0.51 mm). In some implementation, the thickness T5 is less than about0.012 inches (about 0.305 mm). In another implementation, the thicknessT5 is about 0.01 inches (about 0.25 mm). In another implementation, thethickness T5 is about 0.009 inches (about 0.229 mm). In anotherimplementation, the thickness T5 is about 0.008 inches (about 0.203 mm).In another implementation, the thickness T5 is about 0.007 inches (about0.178 mm). In another implementation, the thickness T5 is about 0.006inches (about 0.152 mm). In other implementations, the thickness mayvary across the length of the contact members 8540, 8545.

As shown in FIG. 184, a top surface 8512 of the coupler housing 8510defines one or more slots 8514 configured to receive the one or morecontact pairs 8531 of the media reading interfaces 8530. At least aportion of each slot 8514 extends through the top surface 8512 of theadapter 8510 to one of the passages. When a connector 8410 with astorage device 8430 is inserted into one of the ports 8515 of thecoupler housing 8510, the contact pads 8432 of the storage device 8430are configured to align with the slots 8514 defined in the adapterhousing 8510. Accordingly, the contact pairs 8531 held within the slots8514 align with the contact pads 8432 to connect the contact pads 8432to contact pads on the printed circuit board 8520 mounted to the adapter8510 (see FIGS. 196-197).

In some implementations, each contact pair 8531 is retained within aseparate slot 8514. For example, in the implementation shown in FIG.184, each media reading interface 8530 includes four contact pairs 8531that are held in a set 8513 of four slots 8514 that align with fourcontact pads 8432 on a connector storage device 8430. The slots 8514 ineach set 8513 are separated by intermediate walls 8516. First ends ofthe slots 8514 of each set 8513 are connected by a first channel 8507and second ends of the slots 8514 of each set 8513 are connected by asecond channel 8508. In other implementations, all of the contact pairs8531 in a single media reading interface 8530 may be retained in asingle slot 8514.

In general, the width of each set 8513 of slots 8514 is smaller than thewidth of the key 8415 of a connector 8410 positioned in the respectiveadapter port 8515. In some implementations, the width of each set 8513of slots 8514 is less than 3.35 mm (0.13 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the width of each set 8513 of slots 8514 is less thanabout 3.1 mm (0.12 inches). In certain implementations, the width ofeach set 8513 of slots 8514 is no more than about 2.5 mm (0.10 inches).In one example implementation, the width of each set 8513 of slots 8514is no more than 2.2 mm (0.09 inches).

In certain implementations, the width of the intermediate walls 8516 issmaller than the width of the slots 8514. In some implementations, thewidth of each slot 8514 is within the range of about 0.25 mm (0.010inches) to about 0.64 mm (0.025 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the width of each slot 8514 is within the range ofabout 0.38 mm (0.015 inches) to about 0.48 mm (0.019 inches). In oneimplementation, the width of each slot 8514 is about 0.43-0.44 mm (0.017inches). In one implementation, the width of each slot 8514 is about0.41-0.42 mm (0.016 inches). In one implementation, the width of eachslot 8514 is about 0.45-0.46 mm (0.018 inches). In some implementations,the width of each intermediate wall 8516 is within the range of about0.13 mm (0.005) inches to about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches). In oneimplementation, the width of each intermediate wall 8516 is about 0.15mm (0.006 inches).

The adapter housing 8510 defines a sufficient number of slots 8514 toaccommodate the contact pairs 8531 of the media reading interfaces 8530installed at the adapter 8510. In some implementations, the adapter 8510includes at least one set 8513 of forward slots 8514 and at least oneset 8513 of rearward slots 8514. In the example shown in FIG. 184, theslots 8514 defined at front ports 8515 of the adapter passages axiallyalign with slots 8514 defined at the rear ports 8515. In otherimplementations, however, the slots 8514 at the front ports 8515 may bestaggered from the slots 8514 at the rear ports 8515.

In some implementations, the adapter 8510 can include a media readinginterface 8530 associated with each passage. For example, the quadruplexadapter 8510 shown in FIG. 184 includes a first media reading interface8530A at the rear port 8515 of a first passage and a second mediareading interface 8530B at the front port 8515 of a second passage tointerface with two duplex fiber optic connector arrangements 8400received thereat. The quadruplex adapter 8510 also includes a thirdmedia reading interface 8530C at the rear port 8515 of a third passageand a fourth media reading interface 8530D at the front port 8515 of afourth passage to interface with another two duplex fiber opticconnector arrangements 8400 received thereat.

In another implementation, the adapter 8510 can include a media readinginterface 8530 associated with each port 8515. In still otherimplementations, a different number of media reading interfaces 8530 maybe provided at the front and rear of the adapter 8510. For example, oneside of the adapter housing 8510 can include two media readinginterfaces 8530 to interface with two duplex fiber optic connectorarrangements 8400 and another side of the adapter housing 8510 caninclude four media reading interfaces 8530 to interface with fourseparate fiber optic connectors. In other implementations, the adapterhousing 8510 can include any desired combination of front and rear mediareading interfaces 8530.

In some implementations, the adapter housing 8510 has more sets 8513 ofslots 8514 than media reading interfaces 8530. In other implementations,however, the adapter housing 8510 may have the same number of slot sets8513 and media reading interfaces 8530. In certain implementations, eachadapter housing 8510 defines a set 8513 of slots 8514 at each port 8515of each passage. In other implementations, each adapter housing 8510 maydefine a set 8513 of slots 8514 at only one port 8515 of each passage.In other implementations, the adapter housing 8510 may define a set 8513of slots 8514 at each port 8515 of alternate passages.

As shown in FIG. 190, at least one support wall 8505 separates theforward slots 8514 from the rearward slots 8514. Each support wall 8505extends from the slotted top surface 8512 of the adapter housing 8510the passages. In some implementations, a single support wall 8505extends along a center of the adapter housing 8510. In otherimplementations, one or more support walls 8505 may extend between slots8514 arranged in a staggered configuration. In certain implementations,the support walls 8505 may connect to or be continuous with theintermediate walls 8516. The support wall 8505 defines ramped or taperedsurfaces 8509 extending from the support wall 8505 towards the front andrear of the adapter 8510. Additional ramped or tapered surfaces 8519extends from the front and rear of the adapter 8510 towards the supportwall 8505.

An example media reading interface 8530 is mounted at an adapter 8510 byaligning the contact pairs 8531 with the slots 8514 of a set 8513 andinserting the first rod 8544 into the second channel 8508 of the set8513 and the second rod 8549 into the first channel 8507 of the set8513. The media reading interface 8530 is positioned so that anintermediate wall 8516 extends between adjacent contact pairs 8531. Thesecond contact section 8535 of each contact pair 8531 extends towardsthe respective passage along a gap between the tapered surfaces 8509,8519 (see FIGS. 190 and 191). In certain implementations, the engagementsections 8538, 8539 also are positioned in the gap between the taperedsurfaces 8509, 8519.

The contact pairs 8531 extend between a top and a bottom. In the exampleshown, the top of each contact pair 8531 faces the circuit board 8520and the bottom of each contact pair 8531 faces the passage. As usedherein, the terms “top” and “bottom” are not meant to imply a properorientation of the contact pair 8531 or that the top of the contact pair8531 must be located above the bottom of the contact pair 8531. Rather,the terms are used for ease in understanding and are assigned relativeto the viewing plane of FIG. 190. The contact pairs 8531 also extendbetween first and second sides. For example, the first pin 8544 maydefine the first side and the second pin 8549 may define the secondside.

Referring to FIG. 191, the first moveable contact section 8533 isconfigured to extend through the slot 8514 and engage the circuit board8520. The third moveable contact section 8536 also is configured toextend through the slot 8514 and engage the circuit board 8520. Theability of the first and third contact sections 8533, 8536 to flexrelative to the rods 8544, 8549 provides tolerance for placement of thecontact pairs 8531 relative to the circuit board 8520. In oneimplementation, the first contact section 8533 and/or the second contactsection 8536 may provide grounding for the contact pair 8531 through thecircuit board 8520.

The second moveable contact section 8535 is configured to extend into arespective one of the passages and to engage the connector arrangement8400 (e.g., a key 8415 of the connector arrangement) positioned in thepassage. If a storage device 8430 is installed on the connectorarrangement 8400, then the second contact surface 8535 is configured toengage the contact pads 8432 of the storage device 8430. Data may betransferred from the storage device 8430 to the circuit board 8520 whenthe contact pairs 8531 complete a circuit between the storage device8430 and the circuit board 8520. The circuit is complete when the firstcontact member 8540 contacts the second contact member 8545 to create acontinuous electrical pathway between the contact members 8540, 8545.

For example, the circuit may be complete when the first engagementsection 8538 and the second engagement section 8539 are brought intoengagement. In some implementations, the first engagement section 8538may be configured to move (e.g., lift) towards the second engagementsection 8539 when a connector arrangement 8400 is received at a port8515 corresponding with the respective media reading interface 8530. Forexample, the first engagement section 8538 may be configured to moveupwardly when the front surface 8418 of the key 8415 of a connectorarrangement 8400 pushes against the second contact section 8535 when theconnector arrangement 8400 is inserted into a port 8515.

In some implementations, the first engagement section 8538 is formed onan opposite surface from the second contact section 8535 and the secondengagement section 8539 is formed on a bottom-most surface of the secondcontact member 8545. In other implementations, the second leg 8540 ofthe first contact member 8540 includes a tail on which the firstengagement section 8538 is defined. The tail extends from the secondcontact section 8535 to a distal tip. In certain implementations, thetail is curved in a different (e.g., generally opposite) direction thanthe second contact section 8535. For example, the second contact section8535 may be curved towards the passage and the tail may be curvedtowards the second contact member 8545.

FIG. 193 is a top plan view of an adapter assembly 8500 having twoconnector arrangements 8400 received at the right side of an adapter8510, a connector arrangement 8400A partially received at the left sideof the adapter 8510, and another connector arrangement 8400B fullyreceived at the left side of the adapter 8510. FIGS. 194 and 196 arecross-sectional views showing the partially received connectorarrangement 8400A and the fully received connector arrangement 8400B,respectively. FIGS. 195 and 197 are enlarged views of portions of FIGS.194 and 196, respectively.

In the example shown in FIGS. 194-195, the first contact section 8533and the third contact section 8536 engage contact pads on the circuitboard 8520 when a connector arrangement 8400 is not positioned within arespective port 8515. The second contact section 8535 is positionedbelow the intermediate wall 8516 and the first engagement section 8538is spaced from the second engagement section 8539 when a connectorarrangement 8400 is not positioned within a respective port 8515 (seeFIG. 177). In other implementations, however, one or both of the contactsections 8533, 8536 may be spaced from the circuit board 8520 when therespective port 8515 is empty.

As shown in FIGS. 196-197, inserting a connector arrangement 8400 intothe port 8515 biases the second contact section 8535 upwardly toward thesecond contact member 8545. In certain implementations, biasing thesecond contact section 8535 upwardly causes the first engagement section8538 to abut, swipe, or otherwise touch the second engagement section8539 to complete the electrical pathway between the two contact members8540, 8545. In some implementations, inserting the connector arrangement8400 also may bias the first contact section 8533 and/or the secondcontact section 8536 into engagement with the circuit board 8520. Inother implementations, inserting the connector arrangement 8400 mayincrease the force of engagement between the first and third contactsections 8533, 8536 and the circuit board 8520.

FIGS. 200-217 illustrate another example implementation of a connectorsystem 8600 that can be utilized on a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel) having PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality. The example connector system 8600 includes at least onecommunications coupler assembly 8800 positioned between two printedcircuit boards 8820. One or more example connector arrangements 8700,which terminate segments of communications media, are configured tocommunicatively couple to other segments of physical communicationsmedia at the one or more communications coupler assemblies 8800.Accordingly, communications data signals carried by the media segmentsterminated by the connector arrangements 8700 can be transmitted toother media segments.

The communications coupler assembly 8800 includes at least one couplerhousing 8810 including at least one media reading interface 8830. Thecoupler housing 8810 is sandwiched between a first circuit board 8820Aand a second circuit board 8820B (e.g., via fasteners 8822A, 8822B). Insome implementations, multiple (e.g., two, three, four, eight, twelve,sixteen, twenty, etc.) coupler housings 8810 may be sandwiched betweenthe circuit boards 8820. In some implementations, the first circuitboard 8820A can be electrically coupled to the second circuit board8820B via a fixed connector (e.g., a card edge connector). In otherimplementations, the first circuit board 8820A can be electricallycoupled to the second circuit board 8820B via a flexible or ribbon cablearrangement. In still other implementations, the circuit boards 8820A,8820B are interconnected using other suitable circuit board connectiontechniques.

For ease in understanding, only portions of the example printed circuitboards 8820A, 8820B of the connector system 8600 are shown in FIG. 200.It is to be understood that the printed circuit boards 8820A, 8820Belectrically connect to a data processor and/or to a network interface(e.g., processor 217 and network interface 216 of FIG. 2) as part of acoupler assembly 8800. Non-limiting examples of such connectorassemblies 8800 include bladed chassis and drawer chassis. Furthermore,additional coupler housings 8810 can be connected to different portionsof the printed circuit boards 8820A, 8820B or at other locations withinan example connector assembly.

In some implementations, each connector arrangement 8700 defines an MPOfiber optic connector arrangement terminating multiple optical fibers.In the example shown in FIGS. 200-217 the connector arrangements 8700are the same as connector arrangements 5100 of FIGS. 133-139. In otherimplementations, however, the connector arrangements 8700 may include anLC-type connector arrangement, an SC-type connector arrangement, anST-type connector arrangement, an FC-type connector arrangement, anLX.5-type connector arrangement, or any other type of connectorarrangement.

Each MPO connector 8700 is configured to store physical layerinformation (e.g., media information). For example, the physical layerinformation can be stored in a memory device 8730 mounted on or in theconnector body 8710. In certain implementations, the front connectorbody 8710 includes a key 8715 configured to accommodate a storage device8730 on which the physical information is stored. The key 8715 includesa raised (i.e., or stepped up) portion at a front of the connector bodylocated adjacent the ferrule 8712. The key 8715 fits into a channel 8818of the adapter 8810 to key the connector 8700 to the adapter 8810 aswill be described herein.

The storage device 8730 includes generally planar contacts 8732positioned on a circuit board 8731. Memory circuitry is arranged on acircuit board 8731 of the storage device 8730 and connected to thecontacts 8732 via conductive tracings. In one example embodiment, thestorage device 8730 includes an EEPROM circuit arranged on the printedcircuit board 8731. In other embodiments, however, the storage device8730 can include any suitable type of memory. In the example shown, thestorage device 8730 is seated in a cavity 8716 defined in the key 8715.In some implementations, the cavity 8716 is two-tiered, therebyproviding a shoulder on which the storage device 8730 can rest and spaceto accommodate circuitry (e.g., memory) located on a bottom of thestorage device 8730. In other implementations, the storage device 8730can be otherwise mounted to the connector 8710.

Memory of the storage device 8730, which is located on the non-visibleside of the board in FIG. 200, is accessed by engaging the tops of thecontacts 8732 with an electrically conductive contact member (e.g., of amedia reading interface 8830). In certain implementations, contactmembers 8831 of the media reading interface 8830 initially contact thedeflecting surface 8718 of the connector arrangement 8700 andsubsequently slide or wipe across the contacts 8732 of the storagedevice 8730 as will be described in more detail herein (see FIGS.215-217).

One example coupler housing 8810 is shown in FIGS. 201-206. The examplecoupler housing 8810 defines a single passage 8805 extending between afront port 8803 and a rear port 8804. In other example implementations,however, each coupler housing 8810 can include a greater number (e.g.,two, three, four, six, eight, twelve, etc.) of passages 8805. Each port8803, 8804 of each passage 8805 is configured to receive a segment ofcommunications media (e.g., a connectorized end of an optical fiber). Insome implementations, flexible latching tabs 8808 (FIG. 200) are locatedat the ports 8803, 8804 to aid in retaining connector arrangements 8700at the coupler housing 8810. In the example shown, each latching tab8808 defines a ramped surface and latching surface.

In the example shown, each coupler housing 8810 is implemented as afiber optic adapter configured to receive Multi-fiber Push-On (MPO)connectors. Each passage 8805 of the MPO adapters 8810 is configured toalign and connect two MPO connector arrangements 8700 (see FIGS.215-217). In other implementations, each passage 8805 can be configuredto connect other types of physical media segments. For example, one ormore passages 8805 of the MPO adapters 8800 can be configured tocommunicatively couple together an MPO connector arrangement 8700 with amedia converter (not shown) to convert the optical data signals intoelectrical data signals, wireless data signals, or other type of datasignals.

In the example shown in FIGS. 201-206, each adapter 8810 is formed fromopposing sides 8801 interconnected by first and second ends 8802. Thesides 8801 and ends 8802 each extend between an open front port 8803 andan open rear port 8804 to define the passage 8805. In someimplementations, the sides 8801 and ends 8802 define a generallyrectangular box. In certain implementation, the port entrances 8803,8804 are oblong-shaped. In the example shown, the port entrances 8803,8804 are obround-shaped having planar top and bottom surfaces androunded side surfaces.

The adapter 8810 also includes mounting stations 8807 at which fasteners8822 (FIG. 124) can be received to secure the adapter 8810 to one ormore printed circuit boards 8820. In the example shown, the mountingstations 8807 include annular walls defining openings to receive thefasteners 8822. In certain implementations, the fasteners 8822 passthrough mounting openings 8827 defined by the printed circuit board 8820(FIG. 200). Non-limiting examples of suitable fasteners 8822 includescrews, snaps, and rivets. For example, the mounting stations 8807 canaid in securing the adapter 8810 to the upper circuit board 8820A andthe lower circuit board 8820B (see FIG. 200). In other implementations,the mounting stations 8807 can include latches, panel guides, or otherpanel mounting arrangements.

In some implementations, the adapter 8810 also includes alignment lugs8806 that facilitate mounting the adapter 8810 to the circuit boards8820 in the correct orientation. For example, the alignment lugs 8806may align with openings 8826 (FIG. 200) defined in the circuit boards8820. Accordingly, the alignment lugs 8806 inhibit mounting of theadapter 8810 backwards on one or both of the circuit boards 8820. In theexample shown, two alignment lugs 8806 extend from a first end 8802 ofthe adapter 8810 at the front of the adapter 8810 and two alignment lugs8806 extend from a second end 8802 of the adapter 8810 at the rear ofthe adapter 8810. In other implementations, however, greater or feweralignment lugs 8806 may extend from the ends 8802 in the same or adifferent configuration to form a keying arrangement with the printedcircuit board 8820.

The MPO adapter 8810 also defines channels 8818 extending partly alongthe length of the passages 805 (e.g., see FIGS. 204-206) to accommodateportions of the fiber connector arrangements 8700. In someimplementations, the adapter 8810 may define a channel 8818 extendinginwardly from each port 8803, 8804 of the passage 8805. In one exampleimplementation, a first channel 8818 extends along a top of the housing8810 from the front port 8803 and a second channel 8818 extends along abottom of the housing 8810 from the rear port 8804. Each channel 8818 isconfigured to accommodate the key 8715 of the respective connector8700A, 8700B. In some implementations, each channel 8818 extends abouthalf-way through the passage 8805. In other implementations, eachchannel 8818 extends a greater or lesser distance through the passage8805.

The adapter housing 8810 defines at least a first set 8811 of slots 8812extending through one end 8802 of the adapter 8810 towards the passage8805. In the example shown, each set 8811 includes four slots 8812. Inother implementations, however, each set 8811 may include greater orfewer slots 8812. The slots 8812 in each set 8811 are separated byintermediate walls 8813. First ends of the slots 8812 of each set 8811are connected by a first channel 8814 and second ends of the slots 8812of each set 8811 are connected by a second channel 8815.

The adapter housing 8810 defines a sufficient number of slots 8812 toaccommodate contact pairs 8831 of the media reading interfaces 8830installed at the adapter 8810. In some implementations, each end 8802 ofthe adapter housing 8810 defines one set 8811 of slots 8812 to hold themedia reading interfaces 8830. In certain implementations, the slots8812 defined in the top surface 8802 are offset from the slots 8812defined in the bottom surface 8802 (see FIG. 204). In the example shown,the first set 8811 of slots 8812 is defined in the top end 8802 of theadapter 8810 at a front portion of the adapter 8810 and a second set8811 of slots 8812 is defined in the bottom end 8802 of the adapter 8810at a rear portion of the adapter 8810. In other implementations, eachend 8802 of the adapter 8810 defines a single slot 8812 configured tohold a media reading interface 8830. In still other implementations, theadapter 8810 can include a media reading interface 8830 associated witheach passage (e.g., when only one of the connector arrangements 8700includes a storage device 8730).

Each slot 8812 leads to one of the channels 8818 (see FIG. 204). In theexample shown in FIG. 204, each slot 8812 defined in the top surface8802 leads to the front channel 8818 and each slot 8812 defined in thebottom surface 8802 leads to the rear channel 8818. In certainimplementations, at least a portion of each slot 8812 is shallower thanthe rest of the slot 8812. For example, the adapter 8810 may definesupport walls 8816, 8817 tapering inwardly from the top and bottomsurfaces 8802 to the channels 8818 (see FIG. 204).

Each adapter housing 8810 includes at least one media reading interface8830 (e.g., see FIGS. 200, 207, and 208) configured to connect theprinted circuit board 8820 to the storage devices 8730 of the fiberoptic connector arrangements 8700 plugged into the fiber optic adapter8810. Each MPO adapter 8810 includes at least one media readinginterface 8830 that is configured to communicate with the storage device8730 on an MPO connector 8710 plugged into the MPO adapter 8810. In theexample shown, the adapter 8810 includes a media reading interface 8830associated with each adapter port 8803, 8804. In other implementations,however, the adapter 8810 may include a media reading interface 8830 foreach logical link between connector arrangements (e.g., one mediareading interface 8830 per passage 8805).

Each media reading interface 8830 includes one or more contact pairs8831 (see FIGS. 210-211). Portions of the contact pairs 8831 engagecontact pads 8824, 8826 on the printed circuit boards 8820 mounted tothe adapter surfaces 8802 (see FIG. 208). Other portions of the contactpairs 8831 engage the electrical contacts 8732 of the storage members8730 attached to connector arrangements 8700 positioned in the passages8805 (see FIGS. 215-217). A processor coupled to one or both of thecircuit boards 8820 can access the memory of each connector arrangement8700 through the corresponding media reading interface 8830.

In accordance with some aspects, the media reading interfaces 8830 alsoare configured to detect when a connector arrangement 8700 is insertedinto one of the adapter ports 8803, 8804. The media reading interfaces8830 can function as presence detection sensors or trigger switches. Insome implementations, the media reading interface 8830 is configured toform a complete circuit between the circuit board 8820 and the connectorstorage devices 8730 only when a respective connector arrangement 8710is received at the adapter 8810. In other example implementations,portions of the media reading interface 8830 can be configured tocomplete a circuit until a respective connector arrangement 8710 isreceived at the adapter 8810. In accordance with other aspects, however,some implementations of the media reading interface 8830 may beconfigured to form a complete circuit with the circuit board 8820regardless of whether a connector arrangement 8700 is received at theadapter 8810.

Referring to FIGS. 209-213, each media reading interface 8830 is formedfrom one or more contact pairs 8831. In certain implementations, themedia reading interface 8830 includes at least a first contact pair 8831that transfers power, at least a second contact pair 8831 that transfersdata, and at least a third contact pair 8831 that provides grounding. Inone implementation, the media reading interface 8830 includes a fourthcontact pair 8831. In other implementations, however, the media readinginterface 8830 include greater or fewer contact pairs 8831.

Each contact pair 8831 includes a first contact member 8840 and a secondcontact member 8845 that is aligned with the first contact member 8840.In accordance with some aspects, the contact members 8840, 8845 areconfigured to selectively form a complete circuit with a respectivecircuit board 8820. For example, each circuit board 8820 may include twocontact pads 8824, 8226 for each contact pair 8831. In certainimplementations, the first contact member 8840 of each contact pair 8831touches the first 8824 contact pad and the second contact member 8845 ofeach contact pair 8831 touches the second contact pad 8826 (see FIG.208). The circuit is selectively closed by touching the first and secondcontact members 8840, 8845 together. The processor coupled to thecircuit board 8820 determines when the circuit is complete. Accordingly,the contact pairs 8831 can function as presence detection sensors fordetermining whether a media segment is received at the adapter 8810.

As shown in FIGS. 209-211, one or more contact pairs 8831 are positionedonto rods 8244, 8849 to align the contact pairs 8831 in a media readinginterface 8830. For example, the first contact members 8840 may bepositioned on a first rod 8844 and the second contact members 8845 maybe positioned on a second rod 8849. In certain implementations, thefirst rod 8844 extends parallel to the second rod 8849. When the contactpairs 8831 are positioned on the rods 8844, 8849, the media readinginterface 8830 may be positioned in the adapter 8810 as a modular unit(see FIG. 207).

In some implementations, each contact pair 8831 is retained within aseparate slot 8812. For example, in the implementation shown in FIG.207, the media reading interface 8830 is mounted at an adapter 8810 byaligning the contact pairs 8831 with the slots 8812 of a set 8811 andinserting the first rod 8844 into the first channel 8814 and the secondrod 8849 into the first channel 8815. The media reading interface 8830is positioned so that an intermediate wall 8813 extends between adjacentcontact pairs 8831. In other implementations, all of the contact pairs8831 in a single media reading interface 8830 may be retained in asingle slot 8812.

FIG. 212 illustrates one example implementation of a first contactmember 8840 of an example contact pair 8831. The first contact member8840 includes a loop section 8841 that is configured to be positionedaround the first rod 8844. A first arm 8842 extends from the loopsection 8841 to define a first contact section 8833 that is configuredto swipe, abut, or otherwise engage a contact pad or tracing on theprinted circuit board 8820. A second arm 8843 extends from the loopsection 8841 to define a second contact section 8835 that is configuredto swipe, abut, or otherwise engage one of the contact pads 8731 of astorage device 8730 of a connector arrangement 8700 received at theadapter 8810. The second arm 8843 also defines a first engagementsection 8838.

FIG. 213 illustrates one example implementation of a second contactmember 8845 of an example contact pair 8831. The second contact member8845 includes a loop section 8846 that is configured to be positionedaround the second rod 8849. A first arm 8847 extends from the loopsection 8846 to define a third contact section 8836 that is configuredto swipe, abut, or otherwise engage a contact pad or tracing on theprinted circuit board 8820. A second arm 8848 extends from the loopsection 8846 to define a second engagement section 8839 that isconfigured to selectively touch the first engagement section 8838 of thefirst contact member 8840 of the pair 8831.

In some implementations, the first engagement section 8838 is formed onan opposite surface from the second contact section 8835 and the secondengagement section 8839 is formed on a bottom-most surface of the secondcontact member 8845. In other implementations, the second leg 8840 ofthe first contact member 8840 includes a tail on which the firstengagement section 8838 is defined. The tail extends from the secondcontact section 8835 to a distal tip. In certain implementations, thetail is curved in a different (e.g., generally opposite) direction thanthe second contact section 8835. For example, the second contact section8835 may be curved away from the second contact member 8845 and the tailmay be curved towards the second contact member 8845.

In some implementations, each contact member 8840, 8845 is formed fromcoil stock or other such material. For example, in some implementations,each contact member 8840, 8845 may be manufactured by bending coil stocksprings. In certain implementations, each contact member 8840, 8845 isformed from round coil stock. In certain implementations, each contactmember 8840, 8845 is formed from square coil stock. In otherimplementations, each contact member 8840, 8845 is formed from anothertype of coil stock (e.g., coil stock having an ovoid, rectangular,triangular, or other shaped transverse cross-section).

In some implementations, the contact members 8840, 8845 havesubstantially continuous thicknesses T6 (FIG. 211). In variousimplementations, the thickness T6 ranges from about 0.05 inches (about1.27 mm) to about 0.005 inches (about 0.127 mm). In certainimplementations, the thickness T6 is less than about 0.02 inches (about0.51 mm). In some implementation, the thickness T6 is less than about0.012 inches (about 0.305 mm). In another implementation, the thicknessT6 is about 0.01 inches (about 0.25 mm). In another implementation, thethickness T6 is about 0.009 inches (about 0.229 mm). In anotherimplementation, the thickness T6 is about 0.008 inches (about 0.203 mm).In another implementation, the thickness T6 is about 0.007 inches (about0.178 mm). In another implementation, the thickness T6 is about 0.006inches (about 0.152 mm). In other implementations, the thickness mayvary across the length of the contact members 8840, 8845.

In general, the width of each set 8811 of slots 8812 is smaller than thewidth of the key 8715 of a connector 8700 positioned in the respectiveadapter port 8803, 8804. In some implementations, the width of each set8811 of slots 8812 is less than 3.35 mm (0.13 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the width of each set 8811 of slots 8812 is less thanabout 3.1 mm (0.12 inches). In certain implementations, the width ofeach set 8811 of slots 8812 is no more than about 2.5 mm (0.10 inches).In one example implementation, the width of each set 8811 of slots 8812is no more than 2.2 mm (0.09 inches).

In certain implementations, the width of the intermediate walls 8813 issmaller than the width of the slots 8812. In some implementations, thewidth of each slot 8812 is within the range of about 0.25 mm (0.010inches) to about 0.64 mm (0.025 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the width of each slot 8812 is within the range ofabout 0.38 mm (0.015 inches) to about 0.48 mm (0.019 inches). In oneimplementation, the width of each slot 8812 is about 0.43-0.44 mm (0.017inches). In one implementation, the width of each slot 8812 is about0.41-0.42 mm (0.016 inches). In one implementation, the width of eachslot 8812 is about 0.45-0.46 mm (0.018 inches). In some implementations,the width of each intermediate wall 8813 is within the range of about0.13 mm (0.005) inches to about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches). In oneimplementation, the width of each intermediate wall 8813 is about 0.15mm (0.006 inches).

FIG. 214 is a top plan view of an adapter assembly 8800 having aconnector arrangements 8700A fully received at the left side of theadapter 8810 and another connector arrangement 8700B partially receivedat the right side of an adapter 8810. FIG. 215 is a cross-sectional viewof FIG. 214 showing the fully received connector arrangement 8700A andthe partially received connector arrangement 8700B. In the exampleshown, each of the connectors 8700A, 8700B includes a storage device8730. In other implementations, only one of the connectors 8700A, 8700Bincludes a storage device 8730.

The MPO adapter housing 8810 defines a passage 8805 extending between afront port 8803 and a rear port 8804. The adapter housing 8810 issandwiched between the first example circuit board 8820A and the secondexample circuit board 8820B via fasteners 8822. A first contact pair8831 is shown in one of the slots 8812 defined in the top 8802 of theadapter 8810 and a second contact pair 8831 is shown in one of the slots8812 defined in the bottom 8802 of the adapter 8810. The first rod 8844of each pair is retained within the first connection channel 8814 ofeach end 8802 and each second rod 8849 is retained within the respectivesecond connection channel 8815. An intermediate wall 8813 blocks anadjacent contact pair 8831 from view in each case.

In the example shown, a top of each contact pair 8831 faces the circuitboard 8820 and a bottom of each contact pair 8831 faces the passage8805. As used herein, the terms “top” and “bottom” are not meant toimply a proper orientation of the contact pair 8831 or that the top ofthe contact pair 8831 must be located above the bottom of the contactpair 8831. Rather, the terms are used for ease in understanding and areassigned relative to the viewing plane of FIG. 215. The contact pairs8831 also extend between first and second sides. For example, the firstpin 8844 may define the first side and the second pin 8849 may definethe second side.

The first moveable contact section 8833 is configured to extend throughthe slot 8812 and engage the circuit board 8820. The third moveablecontact section 8836 also is configured to extend through the slot 8812and engage the circuit board 8820. The ability of the first and thirdcontact sections 8833, 8836 to flex relative to the rods 8844, 8849provides tolerance for placement of the contact pairs 8831 relative tothe circuit board 8820. In one implementation, the first contact section8833 and/or the second contact section 8836 may provide grounding forthe contact pair 8831 through the circuit board 8820.

The second moveable contact section 8835 is configured to extend into arespective one of the key channels 8818 and to engage the connectorarrangement 8700 (e.g., a key 8715 of the connector arrangement)positioned in the keying channel 8818. In the example shown, the secondarm 8843 of the first contact member 8840 initially extends generallyalong the first support wall 8816 and the second arm 8848 of the secondcontact member 8845 initially extends generally along the second supportwall 8817 (see the second contact pair 8831 in FIG. 215). Theintermediate wall 8813 and the support surfaces 8816, 8817 end at thekeying channel 8818. The second contact section 8835 of each contactpair 8831 extends through gap between the support surfaces 8816, 8817 tobe positioned in the keying channel 8818 (see the second contact pair8831 in FIG. 215).

In the example shown, the first contact sections 8833 and the thirdcontact sections 8836 engage contact pads on the circuit boards 8820even when a connector arrangement 8700 is not positioned within arespective port 8815. In other implementations, however, one or both ofthe contact sections 8833, 8836 may be spaced from the respectivecircuit board 8820 when the respective port 8803, 8804 is empty. Thefirst engagement section 8838 is spaced from the second engagementsection 8839 when a connector arrangement 8700 is not positioned withina respective port 8815 (see the second contact pair 8831 of FIG. 215).

As shown in FIGS. 215-217, inserting a connector arrangement 8700 intothe passage 8805 biases the first contact member 8840 toward the secondcontact member 8845. For example, the front surface 8718 of the key 8715of the connector arrangement 8700 may push against the second contactsection 8835 of the contact pair 8831 when the connector arrangement8700 is inserted into a port 8803, 8804. In some implementations, thekey 8715 pushes the second contact section 8835 upwardly towards thesecond contact member 8845.

In certain implementations, biasing the first contact member 8840 causesthe first engagement section 8838 to abut, swipe, or otherwise touch thesecond engagement section 8839 to complete the electrical pathwaybetween the two contact members 8840, 8845. For example, pushing thesecond contact section 8835 may cause the first engagement section 8838to move (e.g., lift) towards the second engagement section 8839. In someimplementations, inserting the connector arrangement 8700 also may biasthe first contact section 8833 and/or the second contact section 8836into engagement with the circuit board 8820. In other implementations,inserting the connector arrangement 8700 may increase the force ofengagement between the first and third contact sections 8833, 8836 andthe circuit board 8820.

As shown in FIG. 215, when a connector 8700A with a storage device 8730is fully inserted into the passage 8805, the contact pads 8732 of thestorage device 8730 are configured to align with the slots 8812 definedin the adapter housing 8810. Accordingly, the contact pairs 8831 heldwithin the slots 8812 align with the contact pads 8732 of the respectiveconnector arrangement 8700 to connect the contact pads 8732 to thecontact pads 8824, 8826 on the respective printed circuit board 8820mounted to the adapter 8810 (see FIGS. 215-217). Data may be transferredfrom the storage device 8730 to the circuit board 8820 when the contactpairs 8831 complete a circuit between the storage device 8730 and thecircuit board 8820. The circuit is complete when the first contactmember 8840 contacts the second contact member 8845 to create acontinuous electrical pathway between the contact pads 8824, 8826 of thecircuit board 8820.

Referring now to FIGS. 218-261, in accordance with some aspects,multiple contact elements may be stacked or layered together to form alayered media reading interface. Each layered media reading interfacefits within a single slot in a surface of an optical adapter. Layeredmedia reading interfaces may be used in any of the coupler assembliesdisclosed herein by substituting a single opening for each set of slots.To aid understanding, non-limiting example implementations of layeredmedia reading interfaces are provided herein.

Some implementations of layered media reading interfaces include loosecontact arrangements. Loose contact arrangements include a collection ofcontact elements and spacers positioned next to each other without beingfastened or otherwise secured to one another. Rather, the loosecollection of contact elements and spacers are inserted within anadapter opening and maintained in position by the bounding walls of theadapter opening. For example, the contact elements and spacers may beheld together manually until these components have been inserted.

Other implementations of layered media reading interfaces includebounded contact arrangements. Bounded contact arrangements includecontact elements and spacers clamped or otherwise held together. Forexample, the contact elements and spacers may be held between two endpieces, pinned together, glued together, or otherwise fastened together.The bounded contact arrangement may be inserted as a single module intoan adapter opening.

Still other implementations of layered media reading interfaces includeframed contact arrangements. Framed contact arrangements include one ormore contact elements positioned within a spacer housing. A spacerhousing with the contact elements inside may be inserted as a singlemodule into an adapter opening. The spacer housing generally defines oneor more slots separated by one or more spacer walls. At least someportions of each slot extend to ledges on which the contact elementsseat within the spacer housing. Other portions of the slots extendcompletely through the spacer housing to provide access to the contactelements.

For ease in understanding in the following description, the contactelement 4231 disclosed above with reference to FIG. 119 will be shownincorporated into various layered media reading interfaces. However, anyof the contact elements 5231, 4231, 3231, 2231, 2231′, 1231, 1231′disclosed above may be suitable for use in any of the layered contactarrangements. In still other implementations, other types of contactelements may be used to form layered media reading interfaces.

FIGS. 218-224 show one example implementation of a loosely layeredcontact arrangement. FIG. 218 illustrates a connection assembly 6000including an adapter 6010 configured to connect at least a first opticalconnector to at least a second optical connector. The adapter 6010includes two side walls 6003 extending between top and bottom end walls6004. Passages extend parallel with the side walls 6003 between ports6005 at the first and second sides 6001, 6002 of the adapter 6010.

In the example shown, the adapter 6010 includes four ports 6005 at thefirst side 6001 and four ports 6005 at the second side 6002 forreceiving optical connectors. In other implementations, each side 6001,6002 of the adapter 6010 may have greater or fewer ports 6005. In theexample shown, each port 6005 is configured to receive an LC-typeoptical connector. In other implementations, however, the ports 6005 maybe configured to receive other types of optical connectors (e.g.,SC-type, ST-type, MPO-type, LX.5-type, etc.).

In some implementations, one or more openings 6006 to receive thecontact arrangements 6020 are defined at a first end (e.g., top) wall6004 of the housing. In other implementations, the one or more openings6006 may be defined in both end walls 6004. Each opening 6006 extendsbetween the end wall 6004 and one of the passages within the adapter6010. Each opening 6006 is associated with one of the ports 6005 definedby the adapter 6010. In some implementations, two openings 6006 areprovided in a single end wall 6004 per passage. In otherimplementations, one opening 6006 is provided in each end wall 6004 perpassage.

FIG. 219 illustrates loosely layered contact arrangements 6030 to beinserted in the openings 6006 defined in the adapter 6010. Each looselylayered contact arrangement 6030 includes one or more contact elements6031. Portions of the contact elements 6031 engage contact pads on theprinted circuit board 6040 mounted to the adapter surfaces 6004. Otherportions of the contact elements 6031 engage the electrical contacts ofthe storage member 6025 attached to connector arrangements 6020positioned in the passages 6205. A processor coupled to one or both ofthe circuit boards 6040 can access the memory of each connectorarrangement 6020 through the corresponding media reading interface 6030.

In some implementations, each opening 6006 may receive a loosely layeredcontact arrangement 6030. For example, the adapter 6010 may beconfigured to receive a monoplex (i.e., simplex) optical connector ateach port 6005, each of which may be read by one of the loosely layeredcontact arrangements 6030. In other implementations, however, only someof the openings 6006 receive loosely layered contact arrangements 6030.For example, the adapter 6010 may be configured to receive duplexoptical connectors. Accordingly, a loosely layered contact arrangement6030 is provided at alternate ports 6005 so that only one contactarrangement 6030 is associated with each duplex optical connector.

FIG. 220 is an exploded view of one example loosely layered contactarrangement 6030 suitable for use as a media reading interface in anoptical adapter 6010. The layered contact arrangement 6030 includes oneor more spacers 6032 separating a plurality of contact elements 6031. Insome implementations, the spacers 6032 are sandwiched between contactelements 6031. In other implementations, the contact elements 6031 aresandwiched between the spacers 6032.

For example, the example loosely layered contact arrangement 6030 shownin FIG. 220 includes a first spacer 6032A positioned between a firstcontact element 6031A and a second contact element 6031B; a secondspacer 6032B positioned between the second contact element 6031B and athird contact element 6031C; and a third spacer 6032C positioned betweenthe third contact element 6031C and a fourth contact element 6031D. Inother implementations, the layered contact arrangement 6030 may includeadditional spacers 6032 on the outsides of the arrangement 6030.

Generally, the spacers 6032 can be used in place of adapter intermediatewalls to separate contact elements 6031. The spacers 6032 inhibitphysical touching of adjacent contact elements 6031. The spacers 6032also inhibit electrical connections between adjacent contact elements6031. The contact elements 6031 and spacers 6032 are not bonded orotherwise secured together. Rather, the components of the looselylayered contact arrangement 6030 are loosely assembled together andinserted into an adapter opening 6006. The bounding walls of the opening6006 maintains the loosely layered contact arrangement 6030 in itsassembled state.

Each loosely layered contact arrangement 6030 has a width W10 and eachslot 6006 has a width W11 (FIG. 219). In general, the width W10 of eachcontact arrangement 6030 is smaller than the width of a key of aconnector (e.g., key 4115 of FIGS. 104-111) positioned in the respectiveadapter passage 6005. The width W11 of each adapter slot 6006 issufficiently large to receive one contact arrangement 6030. The widthW11 of each adapter slot 6006 may be sufficiently small to hold thespacers 6032 and contact elements 6031 together. In someimplementations, the width W10 of each contact arrangement 6030 is lessthan 3.35 mm (0.13 inches). Indeed, in some implementations, the widthW10 of each contact arrangement 6030 is less than about 3.1 mm (0.12inches). In certain implementations, the width W10 of each contactarrangement 6030 is no more than about 2.5 mm (0.10 inches). In oneexample implementation, the width W10 of each contact arrangement 6030is no more than 2.2 mm (0.09 inches).

In the example shown in FIG. 220, each contact element 6031 of theloosely layered contact arrangement 6030 defines two opposing planarsides connected by a peripheral edge having a thickness T3. In variousimplementations, the thickness T3 of each contact element 6031 rangesfrom about 1.27 mm (0.05 inches) to about 0.127 mm (0.005 inches). Incertain implementations, the thickness T3 is less than about 0.51 mm(0.02 inches). In some implementation, the thickness T3 is less thanabout 0.3 mm (0.012 inches). In another implementation, the thickness T3is about 0.25 mm (0.01 inches). In another implementation, the thicknessT3 is about 0.23 mm (0.009 inches). In another implementation, thethickness T3 is about 0.2 mm (0.008 inches). In another implementation,the thickness T3 is about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches). In anotherimplementation, the thickness T3 is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches). Inother implementations, the thickness T3 may vary across the body of thecontact member 6031.

Each spacer 6032 of the loosely layered contact arrangement 6030 definestwo opposing planar sides connected by a peripheral edge having athickness T4. In some implementations, each spacer 6032 is sufficientlythick to inhibit electrical contact between adjacent contact elements6031 while enabling the contact arrangement 6030 to fit within theadapter slot 6006. For example, each spacer 6032 may be sufficientlythick to space adjacent contact elements 6031 about 0.58 mm (0.02inches) center to center. In various implementations, the thickness T4of each spacer 6032 is within the range of about 0.1 mm (0.004) inchesto about 0.54 mm (0.018 inches). Indeed, in some implementations, thethickness T4 of each spacer 6032 is within the range of about 0.12 mm(0.005) inches to about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches). In one implementation,the thickness T4 of each spacer 6032 is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches).Indeed, in other implementations, the thickness T4 of each spacer 6032is within the range of about 0.25 mm (0.010 inches) to about 0.41 mm(0.016 inches). In one implementation, the thickness T4 of each spacer6032 is about 0.38 mm (0.015 inches).

In some implementations, the peripheral edge of the spacer 6032generally defines a rectangular shape. In other implementations, theperipheral edge of each spacer 6032 has an irregular shape. For example,the peripheral edge may be shaped so that the spacer 6032 extends onlybetween portions of adjacent contact elements 6031. In the example shownin FIG. 220, each spacer 6032 includes a base portion 6033, a firstextension 6034, and a second extension 6035. The base portion 6033extends between and separates the bases of adjacent contact elements6031 (e.g., bases 4232 of contact element 4231 of FIG. 119). In someimplementations, the base portion 6033 of each spacer 6032 is configuredto mount to the support wall of the adapter with the base of the contactelement 6031 (see FIG. 221).

The first extension 6034 extends between and separates the third contactsurfaces of adjacent contacts elements 6031 (e.g., third contactsurfaces 4236 of contact elements 4231). In some implementations, thefirst extension 6034 maintains the separation of the third contactsurfaces as the third contact surfaces move between flexed and unflexedpositions (e.g., as connectors are inserted into and removed from theadapter 6010). In certain implementations, the first extension 6034 issufficiently thick so as to extend between the third contact surfaces inboth the flexed and unflexed positions (e.g., compare FIGS. 222 and224). As shown in FIG. 221, in some implementations, the first extension6034 of each spacer 6032 is configured to seat on the ledge of theadapter (e.g., ledge 4219 of adapter 4200 shown in FIGS. 121A).

The second extension 6035 separates the second contact surfaces ofadjacent contacts elements 6031 (e.g., second contact surfaces 4235 ofcontact elements 4231). In some implementations, the second extension6035 does not extend between the second contact surfaces, but ratherextends sufficiently between the contact elements so as to inhibitsideways flexing of the second contact surfaces (e.g., see FIGS.221-224). In general, the second extension 6035 is sufficiently short toenable optical connectors access to the second contact surfaces. Incertain implementations, the second extension 6035 is sufficiently shortto enable optical connectors access to the second contact surfaces afterthe second contact surfaces have been moved towards flexed positions(see FIG. 224).

FIGS. 225-242 show one example implementation of a bounded contactarrangement 6130. FIG. 226 illustrates a connection assembly 6100including an adapter 6110 configured to connect at least a first opticalconnector 6120 to at least a second optical connector 6120. The adapter6110 includes two side walls 6103 extending between top and bottom endwalls 6104. Passages extend parallel with the side walls 6103 betweenports 6105 at the first and second sides 6101, 6102 of the adapter 6110.

In the example shown, the adapter 6110 includes four ports 6105 at thefirst side 6101 and four ports 6105 at the second side 6102 forreceiving optical connectors. In other implementations, each side 6101,6102 of the adapter 6110 may have greater or fewer ports 6105. In theexample shown, each port 6105 is configured to receive an LC-typeoptical connector. In other implementations, however, the ports 6105 maybe configured to receive other types of optical connectors (e.g.,SC-type, ST-type, MPO-type, LX.5-type, etc.).

In some implementations, openings 6106 to receive the bounded contactarrangements 6130 are defined at a first end wall 6104 of the housing.In other implementations, the openings 6106 may be defined in both endwalls 6104. Each opening 6106 extends between the end wall 6104 and oneof the passages within the adapter 6110. Each opening 6106 is associatedwith one of the ports 6105 defined by the adapter 6110. In someimplementations, two openings 6106 are provided in a single end wall6104 per passage. In other implementations, one opening 6106 is providedin each end wall 6104 per passage.

FIG. 226 also illustrates example bounded contact arrangements 6130 tobe inserted in the openings 6106 defined in the adapter 6110. Eachbounded contact arrangements 6130 includes one or more contact elements6131. Portions of the contact elements 6131 engage contact pads on theprinted circuit board 6160 mounted to the adapter surfaces 6104. Otherportions of the contact elements 6131 engage the electrical contacts ofthe storage members 6125 attached to connector arrangements 6120positioned in the passages 6105. A processor coupled to one or both ofthe circuit boards 6160 can access the memory of each connectorarrangement 6120 through the corresponding media reading interface 6130.

In some implementations, each opening 6106 may receive a bounded contactarrangement 6130. For example, the adapter 6110 may be configured toreceive a monoplex (i.e., simplex) optical connector at each port 6105,each of which may be read by one of the bounded contact arrangements6130. In other implementations, however, only some of the openings 6106receive a bounded contact arrangement 6130. For example, the adapter6110 may be configured to receive duplex optical connectors 6120.Accordingly, a bounded contact arrangement 6130 is provided at alternateports 6105 so that only one contact arrangement 6130 is associated witheach duplex optical connector 6120.

Each bounded contact arrangement 6130 has a width W12 and each slot 6106has a width W13 (FIG. 226). In general, the width W13 of each adapterslot 6106 is sufficiently large to receive one contact arrangement 6130.The contact elements 6131 within the contact arrangement 6130 arepositioned so that a width defined between the two outermost contactelements 6131 in the bounded contact arrangement 6130 is less than awidth of a key of a connector (e.g., key 4115 of FIGS. 104-111)positioned in the respective adapter passage 6105.

The width W12 of the bounded contact arrangement 6130 may be larger thanthe key of the connector. The width W12 of each contact arrangement 6130is smaller than the width W12 of the slot 6106. In some implementations,the width W12 of each contact arrangement 6130 is less than 3.35 mm(0.13 inches). Indeed, in some implementations, the width W12 of eachcontact arrangement 6130 is less than about 3.1 mm (0.12 inches). Incertain implementations, the width W12 of each contact arrangement 6130is no more than about 2.5 mm (0.10 inches). In one exampleimplementation, the width W12 of each contact arrangement 6130 is nomore than 2.2 mm (0.09 inches).

FIG. 227 is an exploded view of one example bounded contact arrangement6130 suitable for use as a media reading interface in an optical adapter6110. The bounded contact arrangement 6130 includes one or more spacers6132 separating a plurality of contact elements 6131. Generally, thespacers 6132 can be used in place of adapter intermediate walls toseparate contact elements. The spacers 6132 inhibit physical touching ofadjacent contact elements 6131. The spacers 6132 also inhibit electricalconnections between adjacent contact elements 6131. In someimplementations, the spacers 6132 are sandwiched between contactelements 6131 (see FIG. 227). In other implementations, the contactelements 6131 are sandwiched between the spacers 6132.

For example, the example bounded contact arrangement 6130 shown in FIG.227 includes a first spacer 6132A positioned between a first contactelement 6131A and a second contact element 6131B; a second spacer 6132Bpositioned between the second contact element 6131B and a third contactelement 6131C; and a third spacer 6132C positioned between the thirdcontact element 6131C and a fourth contact element 6131D. In otherimplementations, the layered contact arrangement 6030 may includeadditional spacers 6132 on the outsides of the arrangement 6130.

Generally, the spacers 6132 can be used in place of adapter intermediatewalls to separate contact elements 6131. The spacers 6132 inhibitphysical touching of adjacent contact elements 6131. The spacers 6132also inhibit electrical connections between adjacent contact elements6131. The contact elements 6121 and spacers 6122 of the bounded contactarrangement 6130 are held together when assembled. In someimplementations, one or more rods may extend through openings defined inthe contact elements 6131 and spacers 6132 to maintain the components inan assembled state. In other implementations, first and second endpieces 6140, 6150 clamp the contact elements 6131 and spacers 6132together. In certain implementations, the first and second end pieces6140, 6150 may include one or more rods to aid in retaining the contactelements 6131 and spacers 6132.

In the example shown in FIG. 227, the first end piece 6140 includes oneor more protrusions and the second end piece 6150 defines one or moreholes configured to receive the protrusions. In some implementations,the protrusions of the first end piece 6140 snap-fit into the holes ofthe second end piece 6150. In other implementations, the protrusions ofthe first end piece 6140 are heat staked to the second end piece 6150.In other implementations, the first and second end piece 6140, 6150 maybe latched together. In still other implementations, the first andsecond end pieces 6140, 6150 may be glued, welded (e.g., heat welding,ultra-sonic welding, etc.), sintered, tethered, or otherwise securedtogether.

As shown in FIGS. 228-229, each contact element 6131 of the boundedcontact arrangement 6130 defines two opposing planar sides 6133connected by a peripheral edge 6134 having a thickness T8. In variousimplementations, the thickness T8 of each contact element 6131 rangesfrom about 1.27 mm (0.05 inches) to about 0.127 mm (0.005 inches). Incertain implementations, the thickness T8 is less than about 0.51 mm(0.02 inches). In some implementation, the thickness T8 is less thanabout 0.3 mm (0.012 inches). In another implementation, the thickness T8is about 0.25 mm (0.01 inches). In another implementation, the thicknessT8 is about 0.23 mm (0.009 inches). In another implementation, thethickness T8 is about 0.2 mm (0.008 inches). In another implementation,the thickness T8 is about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches). In anotherimplementation, the thickness T8 is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches). Inother implementations, the thickness T8 may vary across the body of thecontact member 6131.

As shown in FIGS. 230-232, each spacer 6132 of the bounded contactarrangement 6130 defines two opposing planar sides 6136 connected by aperipheral edge 6137 having a thickness T9. In some implementations,each spacer 6132 is sufficiently thick to inhibit electrical contactbetween adjacent contact elements 6131. For example, each spacer 6132may be sufficiently thick to space adjacent contact elements 6131 about0.58 mm (0.02 inches) center to center. In various implementations, thethickness T9 of each spacer 6132 is within the range of about 0.1 mm(0.004) inches to about 0.46 mm (0.018 inches). Indeed, in someimplementations, the thickness T9 of each spacer 6132 is within therange of about 0.12 mm (0.005 inches) to about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches).In one implementation, the thickness T9 of each spacer 6132 is about0.15 mm (0.006 inches). Indeed, in some implementations, the thicknessT9 of each spacer 6132 is within the range of about 0.25 mm (0.010inches) to about 0.41 mm (0.016 inches). In one implementation, thethickness T9 of each spacer 6132 is about 0.38 mm (0.015 inches).

In some implementations, the peripheral edge 6137 of the spacer 6132generally defines a rectangular shape. In other implementations, theperipheral edge 6137 of each spacer 6132 has an irregular shape. Forexample, the peripheral edge 6137 may be shaped so that the spacer 6132extends only between portions of adjacent contact elements 6131. In theexample shown in FIG. 227, each spacer 6132 includes a notched section6138 and an extension 6139. The notched section 6138 facilitatesmounting the spacer 6132 in the bounded contact arrangement 6130.

The extension 6139 extends between and separates the third contactsurfaces of adjacent contacts elements (e.g., third contact surfaces4236 of contact elements 4231). In some implementations, the extension6139 maintains the separation of the third contact surfaces as the thirdcontact surfaces move between flexed and unflexed positions (e.g., asconnectors are inserted into and removed from the adapter 6110). Incertain implementations, the extension 6139 is sufficiently large so asto extend between the third contact surfaces in both the flexed andunflexed positions.

In some implementations, the main body of the spacer 6132 does notextend between the second contact sections of adjacent contact members6131, but rather extends sufficiently between the contact elements 6131so as to inhibit sideways flexing of the second contact sections. Ingeneral, the main body is sufficiently short to enable opticalconnectors access to the second contact sections of the contact element6131. In certain implementations, the main body is sufficiently short toenable optical connectors access to the second contact surfaces afterthe second contact surfaces have been moved towards flexed positions(see FIG. 242).

In some implementations, the first and second end pieces 6140, 6150define opposing sides of the bounded contact arrangement 6130. Forexample, the first and second end pieces 6140, 6150 may fasten togetherto sandwich the contact elements 6131 and spacers 6132 therebetween. Inother implementations, the first and second end pieces 6140, 6150cooperate to encircle the components (see FIG. 226).

As shown in FIGS. 233-235, some types of first end pieces 6140 includesfirst and second sides 6142, 6143 extending outwardly from a boundingside 6141. The first side 6142 defines a first ledge 6148 on which thebases of the contact elements 6131 and the notched surfaces 6138 of thespacers 6132 may seat when the bounded contact arrangement 6130 isassembled (see FIG. 239). The second side 6143 defines a second ledge6149 on which the third contact surfaces of the contact elements 6131and the extensions 6139 of the spacers 6132 may seat when the boundedcontact arrangement 6130 is assembled (see FIG. 239). A first pin 6144and a second pin 6146 extend from the bounding side 6141.

As shown in FIGS. 236-238, some types of second end pieces 6150 areconfigured to couple to the first end piece 6140. A body 6151 of oneexample second end piece 6150 defines a bounding surface that faces thebounding surface 6141 of the first end piece 6140. The body 6151 definesa first opening 6155 through which the first pin 6144 of the first endpiece 6140 is received. The body 6151 also defines a second opening 6156through which the second pin 6146 of the first end piece 6140 isreceived. In the example shown, the first opening 6155 is defined at afirst side of the body and the second opening 6156 is defined at asecond side of the body 6151.

In some implementations, each contact member 6131 extends between afirst end and a second end. For example, the base of the contact member6131 may define a first end of the contact member 6131 and the thirdcontact section may define a second end of the contact member 6131. Thecontact member 6131 also extends between a top and a bottom. Forexample, the first and third contact sections may extend towards the topof the contact member 6131 and the second contact section may extendtowards the bottom of the contact member 6131. As used herein, the terms“top” and “bottom” are not meant to imply a proper orientation of thecontact member 6131 or that the top of the contact member 6131 must belocated above the bottom of the connector 6131. Rather, the terms areused for ease in understanding and are assigned relative to the viewingplane of FIG. 240.

In some implementations, at least a first pin 6145 may extend betweenthe two end pieces 6140, 6150 to further secure the components in placebetween the end pieces 6140, 6150. For example, in FIG. 227, each of thecontact elements 6131A-6131D and spacers 6132A-6132C defines a hole 6135that aligns with the holes 6135 of the other components. In the exampleshown in FIG. 228, the contact element 6131 has a different attachmentsection extending from the base compared to the contact element 4231 ofFIG. 119. The attachment section of the contact element 6131 defines theopening 6135 instead of first and second legs that snap into the supportwall of the adapter. In other implementations, however, the hole 6135may be defined in another portion of the contact element 6131.

The pin 6144 is positioned through the holes 6135 of the layeredcomponents of the bounded contact arrangement 6130. In someimplementations, the pin 6144 extends from the first end piece 6140 andis configured to fasten to the second end piece 6150. For example, thepin 6144 may include a reduced diameter section 6145 (FIG. 233) that isconfigured to extend through a hole 6155 in the second end piece 6150.In certain implementations, the pin 6144 has a bulbous tip 6147 (FIG.227) that friction-fits, snap-fits, or otherwise secures in the hole6155 of the second end piece 6150. In other implementations, the pin6144 extends from the second end piece 6150 and is configured to fastento the first end piece 6140. In still other implementations, the pin6144 fastens to both or neither end piece 6140, 6150.

In some implementations, a second pin 6146 (FIG. 233) may extend betweenthe two end pieces 6140, 6150 to further secure the end pieces 6140,6150 together. For example, the second pin 6146 may extend through asecond hole 6156 in the second end piece 6150. In some implementations,the pins 6145, 6146 extend from opposite ends of the first end piece6140 (see FIG. 233). In other implementations, the pins 6145, 6146 mayattach to any suitable portion of the end pieces 6140, 6150. In certainimplementations, the second pin 6146 does not extend through the contactelements 6131 and spacers 6132. For example, in some implementations,the second pin 6146 extends from a side of the ledge 6149 of the firstend piece 6140 (see FIG. 233). In other implementations, the second pin6146 may extend along from the bounding surface 6141 adjacent the ledge6149.

FIGS. 239-242 show an example bounded media reading interface 6130positioned in a slot 6106 of an adapter 6110. FIG. 239 is across-sectional view of an example adapter 6110 including a split sleeve6111 positioned in a passage between front and rear ports 6105. At leasta first slot 6106 is defined in the top 6104 of the adapter 6110 at thefront of the adapter 6110 and a second slot 6106 is defined in the top6104 of the adapter 6110 at the rear of the adapter 6110. A support wall6107 extends between the first and second slots 6106. In the exampleshown, the support wall 6107 defines a first ledge 6108 extending intoeach slot 6106. A second ledge 6109 is defined at each of the ports 6105of the adapter 6110.

One example bounded media reading interface 6130 is positioned withinthe first slot 6106. One side of the bounded contact arrangement 6130seats on the first ledge 6108 defined by the support wall 6107. Anopposite side of the contact arrangement 6130 seats on the second ledge6109. In the example shown in FIG. 239, the first side of the contactarrangement 6130 is formed by the first side 6142 of the first end piece6140 and the second side of the contact arrangement 6130 is formed bythe second side 6143 of the first end piece 6140.

A pin 6144 extends through an example spacer 6132 and an example contactelement 6131 to maintain the components in position relative to thefirst end piece 6140. In the example shown in FIG. 240, the base portionof the contact element 6131 seats on the first ledge 6148 defined by thefirst side 6142 of the first end piece 6140 and the third contactsection of the contact element 6131 seats on the second ledge 6149defined by the second side 6143 of the first end piece 6140. The secondcontact section of the contact element 6131 is positioned below thespacer 6132 in a passage6105 of the adapter 6110.

As shown in FIGS. 241-242, inserting a connector arrangement 6120 intothe port 6105 of the adapter 6110 biases the second contact section ofthe contact element 6131 upwardly. Lifting of the second contact sectioncauses the third contact section to lift upwardly from the ledge 6149 ofthe first end piece 6140 toward a contact pad on the circuit board 6160.In certain implementations, biasing the third contact section upwardlycauses the contact surface of the third contact section to engage (e.g.,touch or slide against) the contact pad on the circuit board 6140. Ifthe connector 6120 includes a storage device 6125, then the contactsurface of the second contact section of the contact member 6131 engages(e.g., touch or slide against) a contact pad on the storage device 6125.

FIGS. 243-249 show an example implementation of a framed media readinginterface. FIG. 243 illustrates a connection assembly 6200 including anadapter 6210 configured to connect at least a first optical connector6220 to at least a second optical connector 6220. The adapter 6210includes two side walls 6203 extending between top and bottom end walls6204. Passages extend parallel with the side walls 6203 between ports6205 at the first and second sides 6201, 6202 of the adapter 6210.

In the example shown, the adapter 6210 includes four ports 6205 at thefirst side 6201 and four ports 6205 at the second side 6202 forreceiving optical connectors. In other implementations, each side 6201,6202 of the adapter 6210 may have greater or fewer ports 6205. In theexample shown, each port 6205 is configured to receive an LC-typeoptical connector. In other implementations, however, the ports 6205 maybe configured to receive other types of optical connectors (e.g.,SC-type, ST-type, MPO-type, LX.5-type, etc.).

In some implementations, openings 6206 to receive the framed contactarrangements 6230 are defined at a first end wall 6204 of the housing.In other implementations, the openings 6206 may be defined in both endwalls 6204. Each opening 6206 extends between the end wall 6204 and oneof the passages within the adapter 6210. Each opening 6206 is associatedwith one of the ports 6205 defined by the adapter 6210. In someimplementations, two openings 6206 are provided in a single end wall6204 per passage. In other implementations, one opening 6206 is providedin each end wall 6204 per passage.

FIG. 244 illustrates example framed contact arrangements 6230 to beinserted in the openings 6206 defined in the adapter 6210. Each framedcontact arrangements 6230 includes one or more contact elements 6231.Portions of the contact elements 6231 engage contact pads on the printedcircuit board 6260 mounted to the adapter surfaces 6204. Other portionsof the contact elements 6231 engage the electrical contacts of thestorage members 6225 attached to connector arrangements 6220 positionedin the passages 6205. A processor coupled to one or both of the circuitboards 6260 can access the memory of each connector arrangement 6220through the corresponding media reading interface 6230.

In some implementations, each opening 6206 may receive a framed contactarrangement 6230. For example, the adapter 6210 may be configured toreceive a monoplex (i.e., simplex) optical connector at each port 6205,each of which may be read by one of the contact arrangements 6230. Inother implementations, however, only some of the openings 6206 receive aframed contact arrangement 6230. For example, the adapter 6210 may beconfigured to receive a duplex optical connector at each port 6205.Accordingly, a contact arrangement 6230 is provided at alternate ports6205 so that only one contact arrangement 6230 is associated with eachduplex optical connector.

Each framed contact arrangement 6230 has a width W14 and each slot 6206has a width W15 (FIG. 244). In general, the width W15 of each adapterslot 6206 is sufficiently large to receive one contact arrangement 6230.A width of between the two outermost contact elements 6231 of the framedcontact arrangement 6230 is smaller than a width of a key of a connector(e.g., key 4115 of FIGS. 104-111) positioned in the respective adapterpassage 6205. The width W14 of each contact arrangement 6230, however,may be larger than the width of a key of a connector. In someimplementations, the width W14 of each contact arrangement 6230 is lessthan 3.35 mm (0.13 inches). Indeed, in some implementations, the widthW14 of each contact arrangement 6230 is less than about 3.1 mm (0.12inches). In certain implementations, the width W14 of each contactarrangement 6230 is no more than about 2.5 mm (0.10 inches). In oneexample implementation, the width W14 of each contact arrangement 6230is no more than 2.2 mm (0.09 inches).

FIG. 245 is an exploded view of one example framed contact arrangement6230 suitable for use as a media reading interface in an optical adapter6210. The framed contact arrangement 6230 includes a modular housing6240 defining slots 6234 in which contact elements 6231 may be received.In the example shown, the contact element 6231 is the same as contactelement 4231 of FIG. 119. In other implementations, however, any of thecontact elements described herein or any other suitable contact elementmay be utilized. In the example shown, four contact elements 6231 arereceived in the housing 6240. In other implementations, the framedcontact arrangement 6230 may include greater or fewer contact elements6231.

The modular housing 6240 includes opposing sides 6241 extending betweena first end 6242 and a second end 6243. Slots 6234 extend at leastpartially between a top surface 6244 and bottom of the housing 6240.Intermediate walls 6245 extend generally parallel with the sides 6241between the first and second ends 6242, 6243 to separate the slots 6234.One contact element 6231 may be positioned within each slot 6234 so thatone of the intermediate walls 6245 separates the contact element 6231from any adjacent contact elements 6231. The intermediate walls 6245inhibit physical touching of adjacent contact elements 6231. Theintermediate walls 6245 also inhibit electrical connections betweenadjacent contact elements 6231.

Each contact element 6231 of the bounded contact arrangement 6230defines two opposing planar sides connected by a peripheral edge. Invarious implementations, the thickness of each contact element 6231ranges from about 1.27 mm (0.05 inches) to about 0.127 mm (0.005inches). In certain implementations, the thickness is less than about0.51 mm (0.02 inches). In some implementation, the thickness is lessthan about 0.3 mm (0.012 inches). In another implementation, thethickness is about 0.25 mm (0.01 inches). In another implementation, thethickness is about 0.23 mm (0.009 inches). In another implementation,the thickness is about 0.2 mm (0.008 inches). In another implementation,the thickness is about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches). In anotherimplementation, the thickness is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches). In otherimplementations, the thickness may vary across the body of the contactmember 6231.

As shown in FIG. 245, each intermediate wall 6245 of the framed contactarrangement 6230 defines two opposing planar sides (see FIGS. 246-249)connected by a peripheral edge having a thickness T10 (FIG. 245). Insome implementations, each intermediate wall 6245 is sufficiently thickto inhibit electrical contact between adjacent contact elements 6231.For example, each intermediate wall 6245 may be sufficiently thick tospace adjacent contact elements 6231 about 0.58 mm (0.02 inches) centerto center. In various implementations, the thickness T10 of eachintermediate wall 6245 is within the range of about 0.1 mm (0.004)inches to about 0.46 mm (0.018 inches). Indeed, in some implementations,the thickness T10 of each intermediate wall 6245 is within the range ofabout 0.12 mm (0.005) inches to about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches). In oneimplementation, the thickness T10 of each intermediate wall 6245 isabout 0.15 mm (0.006 inches). Indeed, in some implementations, thethickness T10 of each intermediate wall 6245 is within the range ofabout 0.25 mm (0.010) inches to about 0.41 mm (0.016 inches). In oneimplementation, the thickness T10 of each intermediate wall 6245 isabout 0.38 mm (0.015 inches).

The housing 6240 is generally sized and shaped to fit within an opening6206 of an adapter 6210. In some implementations, the housing 6240 has acuboid shape. In other implementations, the housing 6240 is irregularlyshaped. For example, in some implementations, the first end 6242 of thehousing 6240 defines a first base 6247 that is configured to seat on aledge 6208 defined in a support wall 6207 of the adapter 6210 (see FIG.246). The adapter 6210 also may define a second ledge 6209 at anopposite side of the slot 6234 from the support wall 6207. The secondledge 6209 of the adapter 6210 is configured to receive the second end6243 of the media reading interface housing 6240 (see FIG. 246).

The first and second ends 6242, 6243 of the housing 6240 are configuredto receive and secure the contact elements 6231 within the slots 6234.For example, the first end 6242 of the housing 6240 defines a recess6237 and a ledge 6238. The ledge 6238 is configured to receive the basesof the contact elements 6231. The attachment portion of each contactelement 6231 may snap-fit or otherwise secure to the housing base 6247at the recess 6237 (see FIG. 246). The second end 6243 of the housing6240 defines a second ledge 6239 on which a portion of each contactelement 6231 may seat. For example, in FIG. 246, the third contactsection of each contact member 6231 seats on the second ledge 6239 whenthe respective port 6205 is empty (i.e., when no force is applied to thesecond contact section of the contact element 6231).

As shown in FIGS. 248-249, inserting a connector arrangement 6220 intothe port 6205 of the adapter 6210 biases the second contact section ofeach contact element 6231 upwardly. Lifting of the second contactsection causes the third contact section to lift upwardly from thesecond ledge 6239 of the second end 6243 of the housing 6240 toward acontact pad on the circuit board 6260. In certain implementations,biasing the third contact section upwardly causes the contact surface ofthe third contact section to engage (e.g., touch or slide against) thecontact pad on the circuit board 6260. If the connector 6220 includes astorage device 6225, then the contact surface of the second contactsection of the contact member 6231 engages (e.g., touch or slideagainst) a contact pad on the storage device 6225 to connect the storagedevice 6225 to the circuit board 6260.

FIGS. 250-261 illustrate another example connection assembly 6300including another example implementation of a bounded contactarrangement 6320 suitable for use with an example adapter 6310. FIGS.250-251 illustrate the adapter 6310 configured to connect at least afirst optical connector to at least a second optical connector. Theadapter 6310 includes two side walls 6303 extending between top andbottom end walls 6304. Passages extend parallel with the side walls 6303between ports 6305 at the first and second sides 6301, 6302 of theadapter 6310.

In the example shown, the adapter 6310 includes one port 6305 at thefirst side 6301 and one port 6305 at the second side 6302 for receivingoptical connectors. In other implementations, one or both sides 6301,6302 of the adapter 6310 may have additional ports 6305. In the exampleshown, each port 6305 is configured to receive an MPO-type opticalconnector. In other implementations, however, the ports 6305 may beconfigured to receive other types of optical connectors (e.g., SC-type,ST-type, LC-type, LX.5-type, etc.).

In some implementations, one or more openings 6306 (see FIG. 251)configured to receive the bounded contact arrangements 6330 are definedat a first end wall 6304 of the housing. In other implementations, oneor more openings 6306 may be defined in both end walls 6304. Eachopening 6306 is associated with one of the ports 6305 defined by theadapter 6310. In some implementations, one opening 6306 is provided ineach end wall 6304 per passage. In other implementations, two openings6306 may be provided in a single end wall 6304 per passage.

At least a portion 6307 of each opening 6306 extends between the endwall 6304 and one of the passages within the adapter 6310. Anotherportion of the opening 6306 extends from the end wall 6304 to a supportledge 6308 configured to receive a bounded contact arrangement 6330. Thesupport ledge 6308 extends transversely across only a part of the slot6306, thereby providing access to the contact arrangement 6330 from thepassage extending through the adapter 6310. A shoulder 6309 connects theend wall 6304 and the support ledge 6308 at each end of the opening 6306(see FIG. 261). In certain implementations, the shoulders 6309 may becontoured to fit with the contact arrangement 6330 to be received.

FIGS. 252-255 illustrate various views of an example bounded contactarrangement 6330 to be inserted in the openings 6306 defined in theadapter 6310. Each bounded contact arrangements 6330 includes one ormore contact elements 6331. Portions of the contact elements 6331 engagecontact pads 6364, 6366 on the printed circuit board 6360 mounted to theadapter surfaces 6304 (see FIG. 259). Other portions of the contactelements 6331 engage the electrical contacts of the storage members 6325attached to connector arrangements 6330 positioned in the passages 6305.A processor coupled to one or both of the circuit boards 6360 can accessthe memory of each connector arrangement 6320 through the correspondingmedia reading interface 6330. For example, the contact element 6331 mayfunction substantially the same as contact element 5231 of FIG. 142.

Each bounded contact arrangement 6330 has a width W16 and each slot 6306has a width W17 (FIG. 251). In general, the width W17 of each adapterslot 6306 is sufficiently large to receive one contact arrangement 6330.A width between the two outermost contact elements 6331 of the boundedcontact arrangement 6330 is less than a width of a key of a connector(e.g., key 4115 of FIGS. 104-111) positioned in the respective adapterpassage 6305. The width W16 of each contact arrangement 6330, however,may be larger than the width of the connector key. In someimplementations, the width W16 of each contact arrangement 6330 is lessthan 3.35 mm (0.13 inches). Indeed, in some implementations, the widthW16 of each contact arrangement 6330 is less than about 3.1 mm (0.12inches). In certain implementations, the width W16 of each contactarrangement 6330 is no more than about 2.5 mm (0.10 inches). In oneexample implementation, the width W16 of each contact arrangement 6330is no more than 2.2 mm (0.09 inches).

FIG. 256 is an exploded view of one example bounded contact arrangement6330 suitable for use as a media reading interface in an optical adapter6310. The bounded contact arrangement 6330 includes one or more spacers6332 separating a plurality of contact elements 6331. Generally, thespacers 6332 can be used in place of adapter intermediate walls toseparate contact elements. The spacers 6332 inhibit physical touching ofadjacent contact elements 6331. The spacers 6332 also inhibit electricalconnections between adjacent contact elements 6331. In someimplementations, the spacers 6332 are sandwiched between contactelements 6331 (see FIG. 256). In other implementations, the contactelements 6331 are sandwiched between the spacers 6332.

For example, the example bounded contact arrangement 6330 shown in FIG.256 includes a first spacer 6332A positioned between a first contactelement 6331A and a second contact element 6331B; a second spacer 6332Bpositioned between the second contact element 6331B and a third contactelement 6331C; and a third spacer 6332C positioned between the thirdcontact element 6331C and a fourth contact element 6331D. In otherimplementations, the layered contact arrangement 6330 may includeadditional spacers 6332 on the outsides of the arrangement 6330. A firstend piece 6340 borders the first contact element 6331A opposite thefirst spacer 6332A. A second end piece 6350 borders the fourth contactelement 6331D opposite the third spacer 6332C.

The example contact element 6331 shown has the same resilient section,second contact section, and third contact section as the MPO contactelement 5231 of FIG. 142. The example contact element 6331 has adifferent base and attachment section than the MPO contact element 5231.Adjustments also have been made to the first contact section toaccommodate the enlargement of the base between the contact elements5231, 6331. However, any of the contact elements disclosed above may besuitable for use in any of the layered contact arrangements. In stillother implementations, other types of contact elements may be used toform layered media reading interfaces.

The contact elements 6321 and spacers 6322 of the bounded contactarrangement 6330 are held together when assembled. In someimplementations, one or more pegs, tabs, or other support structures mayextend through openings 6335, 6336 defined in the contact elements 6331and spacers 6332, respectively, to maintain the components in anassembled state. In other implementations, first and second end pieces6340, 6350 clamp the contact elements 6331 and spacers 6332 together.For example, the first and second end pieces 6340, 6350 may fastentogether to sandwich the contact elements 6331 and spacers 6332therebetween. In other implementations, the first and second end pieces6340, 6350 may cooperate to encircle the components.

In the example shown in FIG. 256, the first end piece 6340 includes oneor more pegs 6344 or other protrusions and the second end piece 6350defines one or more holes 6354 configured to receive the pegs 6344. Insome implementations, the pegs 6344 of the first end piece 6340 snap-fitinto the holes 6354 of the second end piece 6350. In otherimplementations, the pegs 6344 of the first end piece 6340 are heatstaked to the second end piece 6350. In other implementations, the firstand second end piece 6340, 6350 may be latched together. In still otherimplementations, the first and second end pieces 6340, 6350 may beglued, welded (e.g., heat welding, ultra-sonic welding, etc.), sintered,tethered, or otherwise secured together.

In some implementations, each spacer 6332 defines opening 6334 throughwhich the pegs 6344 of the first end piece 6340 may pass to furthersecure the spacers 6332 to the bounded contact arrangement 6330. Incertain implementations, each spacer 6332 defines an opening 6334 onopposite ends of the spacer 6332 (see FIG. 256). In otherimplementations, each spacer 6332 may include greater or fewer pegopenings 6334. In certain implementations, each contact element 6331 maydefine one or more openings that are configured to receive the pegs6344. In other implementations, neither the spacers 6332 nor the contactelements 6331 are configured to receive the pegs 6344.

In certain implementations, the first and second end pieces 6340, 6350may include one or more tabs 6345 to aid in retaining the contactelements 6331 and spacers 6332. In some implementations, at least afirst tab 6345 may extend between the two end pieces 6340, 6350 tofurther secure the components in place between the end pieces 6340,6350. For example, in FIG. 256, each of the contact elements 6331A-6331Dand spacers 6332A-6332C defines a hole 6335 that aligns with the holes6335 of the other components. In the example shown in FIG. 256, the hole6335 is defined in the base of the contact element 6331. In otherimplementations, however, the opening 6335 may be defined in anotherportion of the contact element 6331.

The tab 6345 is positioned through the holes 6335 of the layeredcomponents of the bounded contact arrangement 6330. In someimplementations, the tab 6345 extends from the first end piece 6340 andis configured to fasten to the second end piece 6350. For example, thetab 6345 may include a reduced diameter section 6346 (FIG. 256) that isconfigured to extend through a hole 6355 in the second end piece 6350.In certain implementations, the tab 6345 friction-fits, snap-fits, orotherwise secures in the hole 6355 of the second end piece 6350. Inother implementations, the tab 6345 is heat-staked to the second endpiece 6350. In still other implementations, the tab 6345 extends fromthe second end piece 6350 and is configured to fasten to the first endpiece 6340.

In some implementations, the tab 6345 has a rectangular transversecross-sectional profile. In other implementations, the tab 6345 has acircular transverse cross-sectional profile. In other implementations,the tab 6345 has a trapezoidal transverse cross-sectional profile. Inother implementations, the tab 6345 has a triangular transversecross-sectional profile. In other implementations, the tab 6345 has aoval, obround, or elliptical transverse cross-sectional profile. Instill other implementations, the transverse cross-sectional profile ofthe tab 6345 may be irregularly shaped (e.g., S-shaped, C-shaped, etc.).

As shown in FIGS. 257-258, each contact element 6331 of the boundedcontact arrangement 6330 defines two opposing planar sides connected bya peripheral edge having a thickness T11. In various implementations,the thickness T11 of each contact element 6331 ranges from about 1.27 mm(0.05 inches) to about 0.127 mm (0.005 inches). In certainimplementations, the thickness T11 is less than about 0.51 mm (0.02inches). In some implementation, the thickness T11 is less than about0.3 mm (0.012 inches). In another implementation, the thickness T8 isabout 0.25 mm (0.01 inches). In another implementation, the thicknessT11 is about 0.23 mm (0.009 inches). In another implementation, thethickness T11 is about 0.2 mm (0.008 inches). In another implementation,the thickness T11 is about 0.18 mm (0.007 inches). In anotherimplementation, the thickness T11 is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches). Inother implementations, the thickness T11 may vary across the body of thecontact member 6331.

As shown in FIG. 252-256, each spacer 6332 of the bounded contactarrangement 6330 defines two opposing planar sides connected by aperipheral edge having a thickness T12 (FIG. 253). In someimplementations, each spacer 6332 is sufficiently thick to inhibitelectrical contact between adjacent contact elements 6331. For example,each spacer 6332 may be sufficiently thick to space adjacent contactelements 6331 about 0.58 mm (0.02 inches) center to center. In variousimplementations, the thickness T12 of each spacer 6332 is within therange of about 0.1 mm (0.004) inches to about 0.46 mm (0.018 inches).Indeed, in some implementations, the thickness T12 of each spacer 6332is within the range of about 0.12 mm (0.005) inches to about 0.18 mm(0.007 inches). In one implementation, the thickness T12 of each spacer6332 is about 0.15 mm (0.006 inches). Indeed, in some implementations,the thickness T12 of each spacer 6332 is within the range of about 0.25mm (0.005) inches to about 0.41 mm (0.016 inches). In oneimplementation, the thickness T12 of each spacer 6332 is about 0.38 mm(0.015 inches).

In general, each spacer 6332 has a transverse cross-sectional profilesufficient to extends between and separates portions of adjacent contactelements 6331. For example, in some implementations, portions of eachspacer 6332 extend between the third contact surfaces of adjacentcontacts elements 6231 (e.g., third contact surfaces 5239 of contactelements 5231). In some implementations, the extension 6339 (FIG. 256)maintains the separation of the third contact surfaces as the thirdcontact surfaces move between flexed and unflexed positions (e.g., asconnectors are inserted into and removed from the adapter 6310). Incertain implementations, the extension 6339 is sufficiently large so asto extend between the third contact surfaces in both the flexed andunflexed positions.

In some implementations, portions of each spacer 6332 extend between thefirst contact surfaces of adjacent contacts elements 6231 (e.g., firstcontact surfaces 5235 of contact elements 5231). In someimplementations, the main body of the spacer 6332 does not extendbetween the second contact sections of adjacent contact members 6331(e.g., second contact sections 5238 of contact element 5231), but ratherextends sufficiently between the contact elements 6331 so as to inhibitsideways flexing of the second contact sections. In general, the spacer6332 is sufficiently short to enable optical connectors access to thesecond contact sections of the contact element 6331. In certainimplementations, the spacer 6332 is sufficiently short to enable opticalconnectors access to the second contact surfaces after the secondcontact surfaces have been moved towards flexed positions (see FIG.261).

In some implementations, each contact member 6331 extends between afirst end and a second end. For example, the base of the contact member6331 may define a first end of the contact member 6331 and the thirdcontact section may define a second end of the contact member 6331. Thecontact member 6331 also extends between a top and a bottom. Forexample, the first and third contact sections may extend towards the topof the contact member 6331 and the second contact section may extendtowards the bottom of the contact member 6331. As used herein, the terms“top” and “bottom” are not meant to imply a proper orientation of thecontact member 6331 or that the top of the contact member 6331 must belocated above the bottom of the connector 6331. Rather, the terms areused for ease in understanding and are assigned relative to the viewingplane of FIG. 257.

FIG. 261 is a cross-sectional view of the adapter 6310 showing anexample bounded media reading interface 6330 positioned in each slot6306 of an adapter 6310. At least a first opening 6306 is defined in thetop 6304 of the adapter 6310 towards the front of the adapter 6310 and asecond opening 6306 is defined in the top 6304 of the adapter 6310towards the rear of the adapter 6310. The support ledge 6308 extendspartially along the opening 6306. The support ledge 6308 is sufficientlyshort to provide access from a respective passage 6305 to the secondcontact surface of any contact element 6331 of the bounded contactarrangement 6330.

The bounded contact arrangement 6330 is inserted into the adapteropening 6306 as a modular unit (see FIG. 251). For example, a portion ofthe bounded contact arrangement 6330 is configured to seat on the ledge6308 of the adapter 6310 when inserted into the adapter opening 6306.Opposite ends of the bounded contact arrangement 6330 seat on theshoulders 6309. In some implementations, the portion of the boundedcontact arrangement 6330 configured to seat on the ledge 6308 is lessthan about half the length of the bounded contact arrangement 6320. Inother implementations, the portion of the bounded contact arrangement6330 configured to seat on the ledge 6308 may be about half of thelength of the bounded contact arrangement 6330 or more.

As shown, inserting a connector arrangement 6320 into the port 6305 ofthe adapter 6310 biases the second contact section of the contactelement 6331 upwardly. Lifting of the second contact section causes thethird contact section to lift upwardly toward a contact pad 6366 (FIG.259) on the circuit board 6360. In certain implementations, biasing thethird contact section upwardly causes the contact surface of the thirdcontact section to engage (e.g., touch or slide against) the contact pad6366 on the circuit board 6360. If the connector 6320 includes a storagedevice 6325, then the contact surface of the second contact section ofthe contact member 6331 engages (e.g., touch or slide against) a contactpad on the storage device 6325 to connect the storage device 6325 to thecircuit board 6360.

FIGS. 262-275 illustrate another example implementation of a connectorsystem 9000 that can be utilized on a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel) having PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality. The connector system 9000 includes at least one examplecommunications coupler assembly 9200 and at least two connectorarrangements 9100. In the example shown, the communications couplerassembly 9200 is configured to receive four connector arrangements 9100.

The communications coupler assembly 9200 is configured to be mounted toa connector assembly, such as a communications blade or a communicationspanel. One or more connector arrangements 9100, which terminate segmentsof communications media, are configured to communicatively couple toother segments of physical communications media at the coupler assembly9200 (e.g., see FIG. 272). Accordingly, communications data signalscarried by a media segment terminated by a first connector arrangement9100 can be propagated to another media segment terminated by a secondconnector arrangement 9100 through the communications coupler assembly9200.

In some implementations, each connector arrangement 9100 defines aduplex fiber optic connector arrangement including two connectors, eachof which terminates an optical fiber. In the example shown, theconnector arrangements 9100 are substantially the same as connectorarrangements 4100 of FIGS. 103-111 with different contact arrangementson the storage device. In other implementations, however, the connectorarrangements 9100 may include an SC-type connector arrangement, anST-type connector arrangement, an FC-type connector arrangement, anMPO-type connector arrangement, an LX.5-type connector arrangement, orany other type of connector arrangement.

In accordance with some aspects, each communications coupler assembly9200 is configured to form a single link between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, each communications coupler assembly9200 can define a single passage at which a first connector arrangementis coupled to a second connector arrangement. In accordance with otheraspects, however, each communications coupler assembly 9200 isconfigured to form two or more links between segments of physicalcommunications media. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 264, thecommunications coupler assembly 9200 defines four passages 9215.

In some implementations, each passage 9215 of the communications couplerassembly 9200 is configured to form a single link between first andsecond connector arrangements 9100. In other example implementations,two or more passages 9215 can form a single link between connectorarrangements 9100 (e.g., two ports can form a link between duplexconnector arrangements). In still other example implementations, eachcommunications coupler assembly 9200 can form a one-to-many link. Forexample, the communications coupler assembly 9200 can connect a duplexconnector arrangement to two single connector arrangements or to anotherduplex connector arrangement.

One example implementation of a connector arrangement 9100 is shown inFIG. 262. Each connector arrangements 9100 includes one or more fiberoptic connectors, each of which terminates one or more optical fibers.In the example shown, each connector arrangement 9100 defines a duplexfiber optic connector arrangement including two fiber optic connectorsheld together using a clip 9150. In another example implementation, aconnector arrangement 9100 can define a single fiber optic connector. Asshown, each fiber optic connector includes a connector body protecting aferrule 9112 that retains an optical fiber. The connector body issecured to a boot for providing bend protection to the optical fiber. Inthe example shown, the connector is an LC-type fiber optic connector.The connector body includes a fastening member (e.g., clip arm) thatfacilitates retaining the fiber optic connector within a passage 9215 inthe communications coupler assembly 9200.

Each connector arrangement 9100 is configured to store physical layerinformation. For example, a storage device 9130 may be installed on orin the body of one or more of the fiber optic connectors of eachconnector arrangement 9100. In the example shown, the storage device9130 is installed on only one fiber optic connector of a duplexconnector arrangement 9100. In other implementations, however, a storagedevice 9130 may be installed on each fiber optic connector of aconnector arrangement 9100. In the example shown, the storage device9130 is located within a key 9115 of each connector arrangement 9100. Inother implementations, the storage device 9130 may be located at anotherposition on or in the connector arrangement 9100.

One example storage device 9130 includes a printed circuit board 9131 onwhich memory circuitry can be arranged (see FIG. 275). In one exampleimplementation, the storage device 9130 includes an EEPROM circuit 9133(FIG. 164) arranged on the printed circuit board 9131. In the exampleshown in FIG. 156, an EEPROM circuit 9133 is arranged on the non-visibleside of the circuit board 9131. In other implementations, however, thestorage device 9130 can include any suitable type of non-volatilememory.

Electrical contacts 9132 also are arranged on the printed circuit board9131 for interaction with a media reading interface of thecommunications coupler assembly 9200 (as described in more detailherein). In the example shown in FIGS. 262-263, the electrical contacts9132 include two inner contacts 9132A and two outer contacts 9132B. Theinner contacts 9132A are generally L-shaped with the cantileveredsection extending towards the edges of the printed circuit board 9131.The outer contacts 9132B are generally shorter than the inner contacts9132A. However, any of the implementations of electrical contacts 9132disclosed herein are suitable for use in the storage device 9130.

FIGS. 264-268 show one example implementation of a communicationscoupler assembly 9200 implemented as a fiber optic adapter. The examplecommunications coupler assembly 9200 includes an adapter housing 9210configured to align and interface two or more fiber optic connectorarrangements 9100. In other example implementations, the adapter housing9210 may be configured to communicatively couple together a fiber opticconnector with a media converter (not shown) to convert the optical datasignals into electrical data signals, wireless data signals, or othersuch data signals. In still other implementations, the communicationscoupler assembly 9200 can include an electrical termination block thatis configured to receive punch-down wires, electrical plugs (e.g., forelectrical jacks), or other types of electrical connectors.

The example adapter housing 9210 is formed from opposing sides 9211interconnected by first and second ends 9212 (FIG. 264). The sides 9211and ends 9212 each extend between a front and a rear. The adapterhousing 9210 defines one or more passages extending between the frontand rear ends. Each end of each passage defines a port 9215 configuredto receive a connector arrangement or portion thereof (e.g., one fiberoptic connector of duplex connector arrangement 9100 of FIG. 262).

In the example shown, the adapter housing 9210 defines four passages andeight ports 9215. In other implementations, however, the adapter housing9210 may define one, two, three, six, eight, ten, twelve, sixteen, oreven more passages. Sleeves (e.g., split sleeves) 9216 are positionedwithin the passages to receive and align the ferrules 9112 of fiberoptic connectors (see FIG. 272). In certain implementations, the adapterhousing 9210 also defines latch engagement channel 9217 (FIG. 264) ateach port 9215 to facilitate retention of the latch arms of the fiberoptic connectors. Each latch engagement channel 9217 is sized and shapedto receive the key or keys 9115 of the connector arrangement 9100.

As shown in FIGS. 262 and 269, a printed circuit board 9220 isconfigured to secure (e.g., via fasteners 9222) to the adapter housing9210. In some implementations, the example adapter housing 9210 includestwo annular walls 9218 in which the fasteners 9222 can be inserted tohold the printed circuit board 9220 to the adapter housing 9210 (seeFIG. 262). Non-limiting examples of suitable fasteners 9222 includescrews, snaps, and rivets. For ease in understanding, only a portion ofthe printed circuit board 9220 is shown in FIGS. 262 and 269. It is tobe understood that the printed circuit board 9220 electrically connectsto a data processor and/or to a network interface (e.g., the processor217 and network interface 216 of FIG. 2). It is further to be understoodthat multiple communications coupler housings 9210 can be connected tothe printed circuit board 9220 within a connector assembly (e.g., acommunications panel).

The fiber optic adapter 9210 includes one or more media readinginterfaces 9230, each configured to connect the printed circuit board9220 to the storage devices 9130 of the fiber optic connectorarrangements 9100 plugged into the fiber optic adapter 9210. Each mediareading interface 9230 is positioned in an opening 9214 that extendsbetween an exterior surface 9212 of the adapter 9210 and one of thepassages of the adapter 9210. Portions of each media reading interfaces9230 engage contacts and tracings on the printed circuit board 9220mounted to the surface 9212 of the adapter 9210. Other portions of themedia reading interfaces 9230 engage the electrical contacts 9132 of anystorage members 9130 attached to the connector arrangements 9100positioned in the passages (see FIGS. 272-275). A processor coupled tothe circuit board 9220 can access the memory 9133 of each connectorarrangement 9100 through a corresponding media reading interface 9230.

In general, each media reading interface 9230 is formed from one or morecontact members 9231 (see FIG. 265). For example, in certainimplementations, the media reading interface 9230 includes at least afirst contact member 9231 that transfers power, at least a secondcontact member 9231 that transfers data, and at least a third contactmember 9231 that provides grounding. In one implementation, the mediareading interface 9230 includes a fourth contact member. In otherimplementations, however, the media reading interface 9230 includegreater or fewer contact members 9231.

Each contact member 9231 includes at least two contact sections definingcontact surfaces. A first contact section 9236 contacts the printedcircuit board 9220 and a second contact section 9235 contacts thestorage device 9130 on a corresponding connector arrangement 9100. Thecontact members 9231 of the media reading interface 9230 are positionedwithin a recessed section 9244 of an interface housing 9240. In general,the contact members 9231 are positioned to align with the contact pads9132 of a connector 9100 when the connector 9100 and the media readinginterface 9230 are received at the adapter 9210.

In the example shown, four contact members 9231 are positioned in thehousing 9240 in a square pattern. For example, each of the contactmembers 9231 may be positioned to be about 0.14 inches from an adjacentcontact member 9231 measured center-to-center. In other implementations,the contact members 9231 may be positioned closer together or fartherapart. In still other implementations, greater or fewer contact members9231 may be positioned in other configurations (e.g., a diamond pattern,a ring pattern, a rectangular pattern, a triangular pattern, columns,and/or rows) in which the contact members 9231 will align withrespective contact pads 9132 on the connector arrangement 9100.

The interface housing 9240 includes opposing sides 9241 extendingbetween opposing ends 9242. In certain implementations, the outersurfaces of the ends 9242 are stepped inwardly to define shoulders 9243.The recess 9244 in a top surface of the housing 9240 leads to a supportsurface 9245 in which one or more holes 9246 are defined. The holes 9246extend between the support surface 9245 and the bottom of the housing9240. Each contact member 9231 extends at least partially through one ofthe through-holes 9246. For example, each contact member 9231 mayinclude a collar 9234 having a diameter of sufficient size to inhibitthe contact member 9231 from passing completely through the holes 9246.

In some implementations, at least one end wall 9212 of the adapter 9210defines one or more openings 9214 sized and configured to receive thecontact arrangements 9230. The adapter 9210 also defines shoulders 9213extending laterally into the opening 9214. The shoulders 9213 areconfigured to receive and support the shoulders 9243 of the interfacehousing 9240 to maintain the media reading interfaces 9230 within theopenings 9214 (see FIG. 266). In certain implementations, the shoulders9213 are provided at the front and rear of the opening 9214. In otherimplementations, the shoulders 9213 are provided on all sides of theopening 9214.

In some implementations, the openings 9214 are defined in the top endwall 9214. In other implementations, the opening 9214 may be defined inboth end walls 9212. Each opening 9214 extends between the end wall 9212and one of the passages within the adapter 9210. Each opening 9214 isassociated with one of the ports 9215 defined by the adapter 9210. Insome implementations, two openings 9214 are provided in a single endwall 9212 per passage. In other implementations, one opening 9214 isprovided in each end wall 9212 per passage.

FIG. 269 is a top plan view of an adapter assembly 9200 having twoconnector arrangements 9100 received at the right side of an adapter9210, a connector arrangement 9100A partially received at the left sideof the adapter 9210, and another connector arrangement 9100B fullyreceived at the left side of the adapter 9210. FIGS. 270 and 272 arecross-sectional views showing the partially received connectorarrangement 9100A and the fully received connector arrangement 9100B.FIGS. 271 and 273 are enlarged views of portions of FIGS. 270 and 272,respectively.

As shown in FIGS. 270-271, the contact members 9231 seat in theinterface housing 9240 with the second contact sections 9235 positionedwithin the respective passage. As shown in FIGS. 272-273, the keyportion 9215 of the connector arrangement 9100 pushes the contactmembers 9231 upwardly to push the first contact sections 9236 againstthe printed circuit board 9220 to complete the circuit between thecircuit board 9220 and the connector arrangement 9100. The first contactsection 9236 of each contact member 9231 is positioned a distance D1below the circuit board 9220 (see FIG. 271). In some implementations,inserting the connector arrangement 9100 at an adapter port 9215 causesthe keying portion 9115 of the connector arrangement 9100 to pushagainst the second contact section 9235 of each contact member 9231 topush the contact member 9231 upwardly a distance that is about equal tothe distance D1.

In other implementations, however, the keying portion 9115 pushes thesecond contact section 9235 upwardly a distance D2 that is greater thanthe distance D1. For example, in certain implementations, the contactmembers 9231 may be arranged so that the second contact section 9235 ofeach contact 9231 is initially positioned below where the top surface ofthe key 9115 of the connector arrangement 9100 would be positioned (seeFIG. 271). For example, as shown in FIG. 271, the second contact section9235 may be positioned a distance D2 below the top surface of the keyingarrangement 9115. Accordingly, inserting the connector arrangement 9100into passage lifts the second contact section 9235 the distance D2.

In some such implementations, each contact member 9231 includes aplunger 9233 spring-biased within an outer body 9232. The plunger 9233defines the first contact surface 9233 and the outer body 9232 definesthe second contact surface 9235. The collar 9234 is coupled to the outerbody 9232. The plunger 9233 is initially biased outwardly from the outerbody 9232. Upward movement of the second contact section 9235 causesupward movement of the plunger 9233 until the plunger 9233 engages thecircuit board 9220. Continued upwardly movement of the second contactsection 9235 (along the distance D2) causes the plunger 9233 to retractwithin the outer body 9232 against the bias of the spring. Accordingly,the spring biases the first contact surface 9236 and the second contactsurface 9235 against the circuit board 9220 and the connector 9100,respectively. The spring-biasing of the contact sections 9235, 9236provides tolerance for differences in spacing between the contact member9231 and the respective printed circuit board 9220 when the couplerassembly 9200 is manufactured.

The plunger 9233 has a smaller diameter than the outer body 9232. Forexample, in one implementation, the plunger has a diameter of about 0.03inches and the outer body 9232 has a diameter of about 0.05 inches. Invarious other implementations, the diameter of the plunger 9233 mayrange from about 0.03 to about 0.04 inches and the diameter of the outerbody 9232 may range from about 0.04 to about 0.06 inches. In someimplementations, the collar 9234 may have a diameter ranging from about0.05 inches to 0.07 inches. For example, in one implementation, thecollar 9234 has a diameter of about 0.06 inches.

In accordance with some aspects, the media reading interfaces 9230 areconfigured to detect when a connector arrangement 9100 is inserted intoone of the adapter ports 9215. The media reading interfaces 9230 canfunction as presence detection sensors or trigger switches. In someimplementations, one or more of the contact members 9231 of the mediareading interface 9230 are configured to form a complete circuit betweenthe circuit board 9220 and the connector storage devices 9130 only whena connector arrangement 9110 is received at the adapter 9210. In otherexample implementations, the contact members 9231 can be configured tocomplete a circuit until pushed away from the circuit board 9220 by aconnector arrangement 9100. In accordance with other aspects, however,some implementations of the contact members 9231 may be configured toform a complete circuit with the circuit board 9220 regardless ofwhether a connector arrangement 9100 is received at the adapter 9210.

FIGS. 276-282 illustrate example coupler assemblies having alternativealignment features. FIGS. 276-279 show one example coupler assembly 9500including an adapter housing 9510 defining one or more passages 9515having front and rear ports. A connector 9530 can be received at eachport 9515. Each connector 9530 includes a body 9531 defining a passage9532 through which a ferrule 9535 extends. The ferrule 9535 may protrudefrom the passage 9532 (see FIG. 379).

An alignment member 9520 may be installed in one or more of the passages9515. As shown in FIG. 277, each alignment member 9520 includes a body9521 defining a through passage 9522. In some implementations, innersurfaces 9523 at the ends of the through-passage 9522 tapers outwardlyfrom an inner portion of the passage 9522 to the respective end. Thetapered inner surfaces 9523 may increase the tolerance for variations inorientation and alignment of the connector ferrule 9535. The taperedsurface also may provide for a smoother insertion of the ferrule intothe passage 9522.

The alignment member body 9521 includes locking members 9524 at anintermediate portion of the body 9521. In the example shown, the body9521 includes two spaced locking members 9524. Each locking member 9524has a ramped surface 9525 and a shoulder 9526. The shoulders 9526 of thelocking members 9524 face each other and the ramped surfaces 9525 of thelocking members 9524 faces away from each other. A surface 9527 extendsbetween the shoulders 9526 of the locking members 9524.

FIG. 279 shows a cross-section of the adapter housing 9510 with aconnector 9530 positioned in one of the ports. The alignment member 9520is positioned within the corresponding passage 9515. The adapter housing9510 is configured to securely hold the alignment member 9520 within thepassage 9515. The alignment member 9520 does not float within theadapter housing 9510. In the example shown, the adapter housing 9510includes opposing tabs or lugs 9517 that are configured to cam over theramped surface 9535 of one of the locking features 9524 and to snap inbetween the opposing shoulders 9536 of the lock features 9524.

When the connector 9530 is inserted into the passage 9515, the alignmentmember body 9521 enters the passage 9532 of the connector body 9531. Theferrule 9535 enters the through-passage 9522 of the alignment member9520. The tapered inner surface 9523 accommodates variations inpositioning of the ferrule 9535 despite the alignment member body 9521being fixedly held by the adapter housing 9510.

FIGS. 280-282 show an example coupler assembly 9600 including an adapterhousing 9610 defining one or more passages 9615 having front and rearports. A connector 9630 can be received at each port 9615. Eachconnector 9630 includes a body 9631 defining a passage 9632 throughwhich a ferrule 9635 extends (FIG. 281). The ferrule 9635 may protrudefrom the passage 9632.

As shown in FIG. 280, an alignment feature 9620 is formed monolithicallywith the adapter housing 9610. The alignment feature 9620 includes abody 9621 defining a through-passage 9622. An extension 9617 connectsthe adapter housing 9610 to the alignment member body 9621. In theexample shown, an upper extension 9617 and a lower extension 9617connect the body 9621 to upper and lower portions of the adapter housing9610. Inner surfaces 9623 at the ends of the through-passage 9622 tapersoutwardly from an inner portion of the passage 9622 to the respectiveend. The tapered inner surfaces 9623 increase the tolerance forvariations in orientation and alignment of the connector ferrule 9635.

When the connector 9630 is inserted into the passage 9615, the alignmentmember body 9621 enters the passage 9632 of the connector body 9631 (seeFIG. 282). The ferrule 9635 enters the through-passage 9622 of thealignment member 9620. The tapered inner surface 9623 accommodatesvariations in positioning of the ferrule 9635 despite the alignmentmember body 9621 being fixedly held by the adapter housing 9610.

The above specification, examples and data provide a completedescription of the manufacture and use of the composition of theinvention. Since many implementations can be made without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in theclaims hereinafter appended.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A contact element having a top, a bottom, afirst end, and a second end, the contact element comprising: a bodyincluding a circumferential edge extending between two planar sides, thebody defining: a first flexible contact section at the top of thecontact element, a second flexible contact section at the bottom of thecontact element, and a third flexible contact section at the top of thecontact element, the third flexible contact section being spaced fromthe second flexible contact section, the first flexible contact sectionbeing located closer to the first end than the second flexible contactsection and the third flexible contact section being located closer tothe second end than the second flexible contact section, the secondflexible contact section facing away from the first and third flexiblecontact sections.
 2. The contact element of claim 1, wherein the bodycomprises: a base; a first member extending from the base to a distalend, the first member defining the first flexible contact section; asecond member extending from the base, the second member defining aresilient section, the second flexible contact section, and the thirdflexible contact section.
 3. The contact element of claim 2, wherein thesecond flexible contact section is located between the resilient sectionand the third flexible contact section, which is defined at a distal endof the second member.
 4. The contact element of claim 2, wherein thesecond member splits into a first leg that defines the third flexiblecontact section and a second leg that defines the resilient section andthe second flexible contact section.
 5. The contact element of claim 2,wherein the resilient section includes a spring formed by at least twoelongated surfaces joined by at least one bend.
 6. The contact elementof claim 2, wherein the resilient section is formed by an arced sectionof the second member.
 7. The contact element of claim 2, wherein theresilient section is formed by multiple springs.
 8. The contact elementof claim 2, further comprising at least one stationary contact section.9. The contact element of claim 8, wherein each contact member includestwo stationary contact sections between which the first member extends.10. The contact element of claim 2, wherein the edge has a thicknessthat is no greater than about 0.01 inches (0.25 mm).
 11. The contactelement of claim 8, wherein a thickness of the edge is about 0.008inches (0.20 mm).
 12. The contact element of claim 1, wherein thecontact element is disposed within an optical adapter so as to beaccessible from within a port of the optical adapter.
 13. The contactelement of claim 12, wherein the contact element is configured so thatthe first flexible contact section physically contacts a circuit boardcoupled to the optical adapter and so that the third flexible contactsection selectively physically contacts the circuit board.
 14. Thecontact element of claim 13, wherein a circuit is completed when thethird flexible contact section physically contacts the circuit board.15. The contact element of claim 12, wherein the optical adapter isconfigured to receive an optical connector at the port so that a storagecontact of the optical connector touches the contact element.
 16. Thecontact element of claim 15, wherein the contact element is disposedwithin the optical adapter to be accessible by the storage contact whenthe storage contact is disposed in a key area of the optical connector.17. The contact element of claim 16, wherein the optical connector isattached to another optical connector using a non-removable clip.